Irish scientists from University College Cork have proposed a way to recycle decommissioned oil and gas platforms, offshore wind farms and other man-made structures. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Nature.
According to the legislation of some countries, such structures must be removed from the shelf at the end of their useful life, but these processes are quite costly. By 2030, this requirement will affect thousands of offshore assets.
The report’s authors recommend reviewing existing laws and policies regarding the decommissioning of such structures and exploring alternative methods for disposing of such structures, including making them the basis of artificial reefs.
Scientists noted that many drilling rigs and other objects in the ocean were built without environmental concerns and without legal requirements regarding their environmental impact.
“We advocate for the collection of reliable, objective scientific data for environmental and social cost-benefit analysis to enable transparent and informed decision-making when drilling rigs are permitted to be converted into reefs.
Our interpretation provides a framework for local authorities to consider the best way to decommission offshore drilling rigs,” said Dr. Anthony Knights, co-author of the study.
Previous scientists I learnedartificial reefs could completely regenerate corals in just four years, he said.
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Source: Gazeta
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