Ecosystem Services Checklists

IPIECA
2011
www.ipieca.org
Alien invasive Alien invasive

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IPIECA/OGP
Forest habitats
Forest habitats are defined here as areas dominated by trees and woody vegetation. They can vary widely
across different climatic regions, but have certain common characteristics.
Provisioning services: Almost all forests provide abundant provisioning services in the form of timber,
wild game, fruits, nuts, berries, mushrooms and medicines. In many places, forests are a source of both food
and economic livelihood for local, including indigenous, communities.
Regulating services: Forests offer important carbon sequestration, climate and nutrient regulation services
and, in many places, help to regulate water quality and stream flow to reduce flooding, soil loss/erosion
and provide a steady flow of clean water downstream.
Cultural services: Forests commonly offer recreation and spiritual services to both visitors and local people.
Different cultural services may be prioritized by different groups (e.g. indigenous tribes may value spiritual
areas while foreign visitors might value recreation and tourism aspects). Forests are also widely viewed as
having heritage value for future generations. Tropical forests in particular provide cultural services in the
form of extremely high levels of biodiversity, iconic species, genetic materials and yet-undiscovered species.
Forest habitats are particularly vulnerable to both direct and indirect habitat conversion relating to oil and
gas activities, with roads, camps and influxes of workers potentially leading to deforestation, species loss
and potential conflicts with local communities. The forest environment may also be vulnerable to pollution of
soils and water supplies. In remote areas, existing waste management services will often not be accessible
and disposal of waste, chemicals, cuttings and mud often has to take place on site. In site closure and
rehabilitation of forest habitats, an understanding of landscape level trends, native species, and potential
future ecosystem services of the area will be crucial.
Important note: Blank cells in the tables below are generally either ‘not relevant’ or unlikely to have
significant dependencies or impacts. However, the checklist is not meant to be exhaustive, and there will Credit: Photos.com
always be exceptions.
2
ECOSYSTEM SERVICES CHECKLIST
Forest habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage
Potential
Sub-activity/ environmental Dependencies on ecosystem services Impacts on ecosystem services
issue and biodiversity
impact / change Provisioning Regulating Cultural Provisioning Regulating Cultural
Change (reduction or
increase) in access to
Loss of carbon cultural (e.g. spiritual
Modification, Change (reduction
sequestration trees) or recreation
fragmentation and or increase) in local services from features (e.g. bird
Access: Construction removal of habitats Use of local natural Natural flood and people's ability to hunt clearing trees and
watching areas)
and operation of and agricultural land. materials (e.g. erosion control and gather wild foods vegetation. Reduction
and settlements.
access roads and Terrain modification. aggregates) for roads, of surrounding (e.g. meat, fruit, in flood and erosion Disturbance (visual,
airstrips. Noise, dust and etc. vegetation. nuts), and to harvest control and water auditory and physical)
vibrations. Visual timber and agricultural purification by clearing
of wild habitats, iconic
disturbance. outputs. vegetation species (e.g. orchids,
monkeys, tigers) and
landscapes.
Temporary reduction
in local people's
ability to hunt and Temporary loss of
Reduced human access
gather wild foods access to cultural,
to an area. Protection
Exclusion zones: (e.g. meat, fruit, livelihood and
and maintenance of
Temporary exclusion of nuts), and to harvest recreation features.
habitats and species
people from a defined timber, medicines and Protection of habitats
(e.g. reduced logging,
area. agricultural outputs. and species from
land conversion and
Potential increase misuse and overuse by
hunting).
in key species due people.
to protection from
overuse.
Visual and aesthetic
Disposal and pollution
Loss of carbon impact of camp and
from wastes and
Possible pollution of sequestration waste to locals and
wastewater, having Assimilation service
water supply. Potential services from visitors. Threats to
Workforce and visual, physical, of rivers, soils, etc. clearing trees and
Use of local natural changes to supply of iconic species (e.g.
ancillary camps: biological and disposing of liquid and vegetation. Reduction orchids, monkeys,
materials for building wild foods through
Construction, operation chemical impacts. solid wastes. Water in flood and erosion
camps. introduction of alien tigers). Possible
and closure. Cutting down of trees. filtration service to control and water
species (typically impacts on spiritual or
Potential introduction provide clean water purification by clearing religious value of an
negative impacts).
of alien-invasive vegetation. area and other non-
species.
use values.
3
IPIECA/OGP
Forest habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage
Potential
New local market but
Depletion of water and Use of local crops, Use of local recreation Possible reduction
Provisioning increased pressure on
local food resources. livestock, medicinal activities for workers in iconic species
workforce: Providing use of water and wild
Reduction in flora and plants, water, (e.g. walking, bird- e.g. primates from
food and water, etc. meat, fruit, nuts, etc.
fauna. firewood, etc. wildlife watching, etc.) increased hunting.
hunted and gathered.
Change (reduction
Loss of carbon
or increase) in local
Seismic survey Loss of habitat and sequestration Potential impacts from
activities: Clearing
people's ability to hunt services from
agricultural land. alien-invasive species
lines, deployment and Terrain modification. and gather wild foods clearing trees and and disturbance
(e.g. meat, fruit, vegetation. Reduction
retrieval of geophones, Noise, dust and (visual, auditory
nuts), and to harvest in flood and erosion
shot hole drilling, disturbance. Potential and physical) of
timber and agricultural control and water
and terrain access for introduction of alien- iconic species (e.g.
outputs. Potential purification by clearing monkeys, tigers).
vibroseis trucks invasive species.
(negative) impacts from vegetation.
alien-invasive species.
4
Forest habitats – drilling – exploratory and development stages
Potential
watching areas)
and settlements.
landscapes.
Temporary reduction
in local people's
and maintenance of
area agricultural outputs. and species from
land conversion and
hunting).
to protection from
overuse.
from wastes and
ancillary camps: biological and disposing of liquid and vegetation. Reduction orchids, monkeys,
Construction, chemical impacts. solid wastes. Water in flood and erosion
operation, closure Cutting down of trees. filtration service to control and water
Potential introduction provide clean water purification by clearing religious value of an
negative impacts).
species.
use values.
5
IPIECA/OGP
Forest habitats – drilling – exploratory and development stages
Potential
workforce: providing use of water and wild
Aquifer intrusion.
Drilling operations: Soil erosion. Noise Possible pollution of
Use of water.
Subsurface intrusion and light. Changes in water supply.
hydrogeology.
Intrusion into water
courses and aquifers.
Water withdrawal. Loss of habitat could
Loss of habitat could
Surface drainage result in loss of
Mud and cuttings: result in loss of
alteration for mud and Possible pollution of associated cultural
Management and Use of water. associated regulating
waste storage. Pressure water supply. services such as
disposal services such as
on waste facilities. aesthetic and non-use
assimilative services.
Possible contamination values.
of soil, groundwater
and surface waters.
Atmospheric emissions
Assimilation services Heat and light could Visual impacts to
Flaring: as required (greenhouse gases and
of receiving air, water, disturb wildlife and communities, tourism
during drilling other pollutants). Light.
soil and vegetation. livestock. and recreation.
Noise. Heat.
Assimilation services Reduction in
Possible water (e.g. dilution and provisioning foods
Chemical handling
quality contamination microbial action) to and water through
and use: including
associated with help break down contamination by
drilling additives
permitted releases. and disperse oil and chemicals (especially
chemicals. perceived impacts).
Reduction in
Water, soil and Use of water to control Assimilation services Reduction in
Accidental events: local livelihoods,
air contamination. fires. Use of natural (e.g. dilution and provisioning foods Reduction of regulating
Risk of blow outs, recreation and iconic
Mortality and products (e.g. sheep's microbial action) to and water through services from loss of
oil spills, chemical species through
morbidity to flora and wool, vegetation) to help break down contamination by oil habitat extent and
spills, pollution, fires, oil and chemical
fauna. Noise, fire and absorb oil. Use of sand and disperse oil and and chemicals (actual quality.
explosions, etc. contamination (actual
smoke. in bags to block oil. chemicals. and perceived).
and perceived).
6
Forest habitats – construction stage
Potential
Loss of carbon
Possible reduction of sequestration
Facility footprint: Modification, Use of local natural local people's ability services from
Construction of fragmentation and materials (e.g. Natural flood, erosion to hunt and gather clearing trees and Reduction in access to
facility and pipelines; loss of habitats and aggregates) for and storm controls at wild foods (e.g. meat, vegetation. Reduction cultural or recreation
temporary or agricultural land. foundations, concrete, site. fruit, nuts), and to in flood and erosion features
permanent presence Terrain modification. etc. harvest timber and control and water
agricultural outputs. purification by clearing
vegetation.
watching areas)
and settlements.
landscapes.
Temporary reduction
in local people's
and maintenance of
land conversion and
hunting).
to protection from
overuse.
7
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
from wastes and
wastewater, having Assimilation service services from
water supply. Potential visitors. Threats to
ancillary camps: biological and disposing of liquid and vegetation. Reduction
materials for building wild foods through orchids, monkeys,
Potential introduction provide clean water purification by clearing
negative impacts). religious value of an
species.
use values.
Disturb tranquillity
Helicopters and Noise disturbance to
Disturbance of hunting of area for local
planes: used for crew human communities
activities. communities, visitors
supply, etc. and fauna.
and iconic species.
Modification,
fragmentation and Loss of carbon
Possible reduction of sequestration
removal of habitats. services from
local people's ability
Site preparation: Modification to clearing trees and
to hunt and gather Loss of access to
Vegetation clearance, drainage and vegetation. Reduction cultural and recreation
wild foods (e.g. meat,
excavation, hydrology regimes in flood and erosion
fruit, nuts), and to features
dewatering, trenching (groundwater, surface control and water
harvest timber and
water, soil). Soil purification by clearing
agricultural outputs.
erosion. Water runoff vegetation.
and sedimentation.
8
Potential
Smothering of
ground level flora
and fauna. Disturbed
and potentially
sterile soil surface. Assimilation services Provision of a supply of
Soil disposal: from
Drainage alteration. of receiving soil and soil, peat or rocks, etc.
site clearance
Runoff sedimentation. vegetation. for other uses.
Contamination of
aquifers. Potential
introduction of alien-
invasive species.
Noise, light, vibrations
and dust from
construction works
Use of aggregates Interference with
affecting flora and Water filtration
Construction work: (sand, gravel, rocks, Disturbance and loss of natural water supplies
fauna. Depletion of services to provide
Digging, building, etc. etc.). Timber from animals downstream (surface
natural resources for clean water.
trees. Water, etc. and groundwater).
buildings, e.g. cutting
forests, excavating
sand, etc.
Landscape Use of aggregates,
Visual impacts to the Visual and aesthetic
alteration: from soil, etc. Potential use
local landscape. Import impact on enjoyment
presence of the facility of local species for
of non-local species. of locals and visitors.
and construction work landscaping.
Reduction in
and perceived).
9
IPIECA/OGP
Forest habitats – operation stage
Potential
Loss of carbon
Reduction of local sequestration Reduction in access to
Use of local natural people's ability to hunt services from cultural or recreation
Facility footprint: Fragmentation of materials (e.g. Natural flood, erosion and gather wild foods clearing trees and features. Disturb
Operation of facility, habitats. Noise. Light. aggregates) for and storm controls at (e.g. meat, fruit, vegetation. Reduction tranquillity of area
presence Atmospheric emissions. foundations, concrete, site. nuts), and to harvest in flood and erosion for local communities,
etc. timber and agricultural control and water visitors and iconic
outputs. purification by clearing species.
vegetation.
Fragmentation cultural (e.g. spiritual
Change (reduction
of habitats and trees) or recreation
agricultural land. features (e.g. bird
Use of local natural Natural flood and people's ability to hunt
Access: Presence and Noise, dust and watching areas)
materials (e.g. erosion control and gather wild foods
operation of access vibrations. Light. and settlements.
aggregates) for roads, of surrounding (e.g. meat, fruit,
roads and airstrips. Visual disturbance. Disturbance (visual,
etc. vegetation. nuts), and to harvest
Atmospheric emissions auditory and physical)
timber and agricultural
(greenhouse gases and of wild habitats, iconic
outputs.
air quality). species (e.g. orchids,
landscapes.
Reduction in local
people's ability to hunt
Reduced human access and gather wild foods Loss of access to
to an area. Protection (e.g. meat, fruit, cultural, livelihood and
Exclusion zones:
and maintenance of nuts), and to harvest recreation features.
Permanent exclusion of
habitats and species timber, medicines and Protection of habitats
people from a defined
(e.g. reduced logging, agricultural outputs. and species from
area
land conversion and Potential increase misuse and overuse by
hunting). in key species due people.
to protection from
overuse.
10
Potential
from wastes and
water supply. Potential visitors. Threats to
ancillary camps: biological and disposing of liquid and vegetation. Reduction
materials for building wild foods through orchids, monkeys,
Potential introduction provide clean water purification by clearing
negative impacts). religious value of an
species.
use values.
and iconic species.
Depletion of water
General operation: resources. Support
Water supply and
Resource requirements of local economies. Reduction of water
renewable energy
in operation (water, Depletion of fuel, supply.
supply
electricity, etc.) aggregates and timber,
etc.
Entrainment of
Desalination: organisms. Salts and
Possible reduction in
Desalination for water chemicals released in Use of marine/ Assimilation (and
Possible reduction of recreation, fisheries
for consumption and water environment. brackish water supply dilution) services of
water supply. and iconic species
processes. Intake and Mortality and to desalinate. receiving waters.
affected.
outfall. morbidity of flora and
fauna.
11
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Pollution of surface
waters, groundwater
and marine
Possible pollution of
Disposal of produced environment if not
waters
water supplies and
properly managed.
decline in fisheries.
Mortality and
morbidity to flora and
fauna.
Entrainment of
organisms. Chemicals Reduction in regulating
released in water Assimilation (and Possible pollution of services associated
Cooling waters: Use of water for recreation, fisheries
environment. Heated dilution) services of water supplies and with decline in habitat
Intake and outfall. cooling. and iconic species
waters. Mortality and receiving waters. decline in fisheries. extent and quality (e.g.
affected.
morbidity of flora and streams)
fauna.
Contamination of
air, soil, water and
groundwater resources
if not disposed Visual and aesthetic
Disposal of waste Assimilation services
and managed Possible pollution of impact to locals and
materials: General, of receiving soil and
appropriately water supplies visitors. Impacts on
hazardous vegetation.
potentially causing iconic species.
smothering and
poisoning of flora and
fauna.
Contamination
Pollution of water
of soil, water, Visual and aesthetic
supplies and impacts
groundwater resources impact to locals and
to fisheries (if it
Wastewater if not disposed Assimilation services of visitors. Threats to
reaches main water
management and managed receiving waters. iconic species (e.g.
bodies). Possible useful
appropriately, orchids, monkeys,
products in the waste
potentially poisoning tigers).
materials.
flora and fauna.
12
Potential
Impacts to local
Visual presence: from Possible pollution of
landscape. Visual Visual and aesthetic
permanent presence water supply (and
impacts to local impact on enjoyment
of the facility / traffic fisheries if it reaches
communities and of locals and visitors.
movements, etc. main water bodies).
amenity users.
Reduction in
and perceived).
13
IPIECA/OGP
Forest habitats – decommissioning stage
Potential
watching areas)
and settlements.
landscapes.
from wastes and
Workforce and wastewater, having Assimilation service
ancillary camps: visual, physical, of rivers, soils, etc. clearing trees and
The use of any biological and disposing of liquid and vegetation. Reduction orchids, monkeys,
temporary camps or chemical impacts. solid wastes. Water in flood and erosion
areas required for Cutting down of trees. filtration service to control and water
decommissioning Potential introduction provide clean water purification by clearing religious value of an
negative impacts).
species.
use values.
14
Potential
Temporary reduction
in local people's
and maintenance of
land conversion and
hunting).
to protection from
overuse.
Impacts to Possible pollution of
Closure of all
groundwater and water supply (and
production and Use of aggregates.
injection wells surface water, soil fisheries if it reaches
erosion, etc. main water bodies).
Disturbance of
Removal of above Noise. Traffic. tranquillity of area
ground components
and gravel from
Disturbance to fauna for local communities,
well pads and communities. visitors and iconic
species.
Closure of other Loss of provision of
facilities: such as local services (e.g. Increased stress
water wells, roads, medical services, water on water and wild
bridges, energy supply, transport, provisioning foods and
generation, waste waste disposal and goods.
management, etc. energy generation).
Assimilation services
Noise and vibration. (e.g. dilution and
Disturbance of local
Breaking up of Disposal of materials microbial action) to
communities and
equipment potentially smothering help break down
visitors to amenity sites.
and polluting habitats. and disperse oil and
chemicals.
15
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Contamination of
water supplies and
Assimilation services impacts to fisheries (if
Disposal of waste and managed impact to locals and
of receiving soil and it reaches main water
materials appropriately visitors. Impacts on
vegetation. bodies). Potentially
useful products in the
smothering and
waste materials.
fauna.
Contamination
groundwater resources Possible pollution of impact to locals and
Wastewater if not disposed Assimilation services of water supply (and visitors. Threats to
management and managed receiving waters. fisheries if it reaches iconic species (e.g.
appropriately, main water bodies). orchids, monkeys,
potentially poisoning tigers).
flora and fauna.
Creation and
Possible regeneration Possible regeneration
Rehabilitation: enhancement of Possible regeneration
of all provisioning of all regulating
recontouring habitats. Colonization Use local native of all cultural services
services associated services associated
the surface; and by native, non-native species in revegetation associated with the
with the habitat with the habitat
revegetation and alien-invasive habitat affected.
affected. affected.
species.
Increasing utilization
of local free natural
Increased stress on
resources resulting
Loss of jobs wild provisioning foods
in tree cutting and a
and goods.
reduction in flora and
fauna.
16
Wetland, river and lake habitats
Wetlands refer to a range of habitats such as tidal marshes, mud flats and bogs. They may be seasonal, inland,
or coastal and may be tidal or non-tidal. Rivers (and streams) are bodies of water that flow into lakes or the sea.
Lakes are categorised as inland bodies of (usually) freshwater.
Provisioning services: Lakes, rivers and wetlands provide provisioning services in the form of water, food, fuel
and materials for construction. They provide protein to many local communities through fish and shellfish as well
as plant food. Peat is also harvested from bogs as a source of fuel, and reeds are utilized to make things and
build houses.
Regulating services: Lakes, rivers and wetlands supply vital regulating services such as groundwater recharge,
water storage, flood control and water purification (waste assimilation). Bogs also offer significant carbon
sequestration services.
Cultural services: Many wetland areas are recognised for their populations of endemic or migratory bird
species and protected species such as crocodiles and turtles. Ecotourism and bird watching are examples of
cultural services from wetlands. Lakes and rivers are also important sites for recreation and tourism, and are
valued as historic waterways as well as for their current navigational use. Furthermore, in some parts of the world
wetlands are granted special cultural value by indigenous populations.
Oil and gas activities can potentially impact wetland areas through the clearance of wetland vegetation, leading
to changes in the sensitive balance of water chemistry and downstream water flow and erosion patterns.
Introduction of alien-invasive species and fragmentation of wetland habitat can also have implications for native
flora and fauna. Disposal of chemicals and wastes in or near lakes and wetlands is usually heavily regulated, but
where accidental events do occur the impacts can have long-lasting implications due to much lower dispersal and
assimilation rates than in marine environments.
Important note: Blank cells in the tables below are generally either ‘not relevant’ or unlikely to have significant
dependencies or impacts. However, the checklist is not meant to be exhaustive, and there will always be exceptions.
Credit: Photos.com
17
IPIECA/OGP
Wetland, river and lake habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage
Potential
Noise and light. Possible reduction
Physical presence in artisanal or
Disturbance (visual,
of ships leading to commercial fisheries
Vessels: Mobilization, auditory and physical)
disturbance to fauna. and fish or shellfish for
operation and general of iconic species (e.g.
Visual presence. consumption. Possible
presence herons, beaver,
Alien-invasive species impacts on fisheries
loons).
associated with water due to disturbance and
and sediment ballast. alien-invasive species.
Temporary reduction in
local people's ability to Temporary loss of
fish (restricted access access to cultural,
Exclusion zones: to fishing grounds livelihood and
Temporary exclusion of and/or landing sites); recreation features.
of habitats and species
boats from a defined perceived impacts in Protection of habitats
(e.g. reduced fishing
area particular. Potential and species from
effort).
increase in key species misuse and overuse by
due to protection from people.
overuse.
Noise impacts to
marine mammals
Possible reduction auditory and physical)
Seismic shooting: At / benthic fauna
in artisanal or of iconic species (e.g.
the sea surface from acoustic blasts.
commercial fisheries. herons, turtles,
Physical effects from
loons).
streamers
Noise impacts to
marine mammals
Seismic shooting: Use / benthic fauna Possible reduction
auditory and physical)
of ocean bottom cables from acoustic blasts. in artisanal or
of iconic species (e.g.
on the sea bed Physical disturbance commercial fisheries.
turtles, sturgeon).
to seabed and benthic
fauna
Helicopters: used for Noise disturbance to
support, crew support, human communities
etc. and fauna.
and iconic species.
18
Wetland, river and lake habitats – drilling – exploratory and development stages
Potential
Possible increase
in commercial or
Noise and light. artisanal fisheries
Physical presence resulting from the rig
Rigs and vessels: of ships leading to acting as habitat;
Mobilization, auditory and physical)
disturbance to fauna. impacts would have
Visual presence. to accrue outside of
herons, beaver,
presence Alien-invasive species any exclusion zones.
loons).
associated with water Possible impacts
and sediment ballast. on fisheries due to
disturbance and alien-
invasive species.
people from a defined perceived impacts in Protection of habitats
effort).
overuse.
Turbidity, noise and
direct physical impacts
Seabed interaction: Possible reduction
to seabed habitats,
from the use of in artisanal or
species, spawning
anchors, rigs, etc. commercial fisheries.
areas and fishing
grounds.
Underwater noise.
Possible reduction
Drilling operations: Light. Seabed
in artisanal or
Subsurface intrusion disturbance impacting
commercial fisheries.
habitats and species.
19
IPIECA/OGP
Wetland, river and lake habitats – drilling – exploratory and development stages
Potential
Water quality and
seabed impacts
(e.g. smothering of
habitats and species). Possible reduction
If disposed onshore: in fish or shellfish
Assimilation services Loss of habitat could
(Intrusion into water for consumption Loss of habitat could
(e.g. dilution and result in loss of
Mud and cuttings: courses and aquifers. due to marine / result in loss of
microbial action) to associated cultural
Management and Water withdrawal. freshwater impacts; associated regulating
help break down services such as
disposal Surface drainage possible reduction in services such as
and disperse oil and aesthetic and non-use
alteration for mud and provisioning foods or assimilative services.
chemicals. values.
waste storage. Pressure water due to onshore
on waste facilities. disposal.
Possible contamination
and surface waters).
Flaring: as required Visual impacts to
(greenhouse gases and
during drilling (e.g. for communities, tourism
other pollutants). Light.
extended well tests) and recreation.
Noise. Heat.
Possible reduction
Possible water (e.g. dilution and
Chemical handling in fish or shellfish
quality contamination microbial action) to
and use: including for consumption
associated with help break down
drilling additives (especially perceived
permitted releases. and disperse oil and
impacts).
chemicals.
Reduction in
Water and air Assimilation services
Accidental events: Reduction in local livelihoods,
contamination. (e.g. dilution and
Risk of blow outs, oil provisioning foods recreation and iconic
Mortality and microbial action) to
spills, pollution, fires, through contamination species through
morbidity to flora and help break down
explosions and ship by oil and chemicals oil and chemical
fauna. Noise, fire and and disperse oil and
groundings. (actual and perceived). contamination (actual
smoke. chemicals.
and perceived).
20
Wetland, river and lake habitats – construction stage
Potential
of ships leading to commercial fisheries Disturbance (visual,
Vessels: Mobilization,
disturbance to fauna. and fish or shellfish for auditory and physical)
operation and general
Visual presence. consumption. Possible of iconic species (e.g.
presence
Alien-invasive species impacts on fisheries herons, loons).
effort).
overuse.
Noise disturbance to
Helicopters: used for Disturbance of hunting of area for local
human communities
crew supply, etc. activities. communities, visitors
and fauna.
and iconic species.
Turbidity, noise and Loss of habitat could
Loss of habitat Loss of habitat could
direct physical impacts result in loss of
Seabed interaction: could result in result in loss of
to seabed habitats, associated cultural
(trenching, piling, loss of associated associated regulating
species, spawning services such as
anchoring, etc.) provisioning services services such as
areas and fishing aesthetic and non-use
such as fisheries. assimilative services.
grounds. values.
Sedimentation
Possible reduction
and turbidity. Loss
in artisanal or
Dredging (offshore of, alteration and Possible negative
or in coastal areas smothering of seabed. impacts on tourism
for jetties, etc.): Possible uses for
Impacts to seabed and recreation (e.g.
including spoil disposal habitats, species, materials (sand, rocks)
recreational fishing).
removed through the
spawning areas and
dredging process.
fishing grounds. Noise.
21
IPIECA/OGP
Wetland, river and lake habitats – construction stage
Potential
Possible reduction
Chemical handling Possible water (e.g. dilution and Possible negative
in artisanal or
and use: including quality contamination microbial action) to impacts on tourism
commercial fisheries
pre-commissioning associated with help break down and recreation (e.g.
(especially perceived
chemicals permitted releases. and disperse oil and recreational fishing).
impacts).
chemicals.
Reduction in
Accidental events: Water and air Assimilation services
Reduction in local livelihoods,
Risk of blow outs, contamination. (e.g. dilution and
provisioning foods recreation and iconic
oil spills, chemical Mortality and microbial action) to
through contamination species through
spills, pollution, fires, morbidity to flora and help break down
by oil and chemicals oil and chemical
explosions and ship fauna. Noise, fire and and disperse oil and
(actual and perceived). contamination (actual
groundings. smoke. chemicals.
and perceived).
Facility / equipment Potential artificial reef Possible for subsea
footprint: Construction effect (positive impacts structures to increase
of subsea equipment, for various species, fish commercial or
pipelines, etc. and fisheries) artisanal fisheries.
22
Wetland, river and lake habitats – operation stage
Potential
Possible increase
in commercial or
Rigs and vessels: of ships leading to acting as habitat; Disturbance (visual,
Operation and general disturbance to fauna. impacts would have auditory and physical)
presence (rigs, FPSOs, Visual presence. to accrue outside of of iconic species (e.g.
support vessels) Alien-invasive species any exclusion zones. herons, loons).
invasive species.
Possible reduction
in artisanal or Loss of access to
Reduced human access commercial fisheries cultural, livelihood and
Exclusion zones:
to an area. Protection (restricted access to recreation features.
of habitats and species fishing grounds and/or Protection of habitats
boats from a defined
(e.g. reduced fishing landing sites). Potential and species from
area
effort). increase in key species misuse and overuse by
overuse.
human communities
and fauna.
and iconic species.
Noise. Physical
presence of ships
Possible impacts
leading to disturbance Disturbance (visual,
on artisanal and
Shuttle tankers: for to fauna. Visual auditory and physical)
oil export presence. Alien- of iconic species (e.g.
due to disturbance and
invasive species herons, loons).
alien-invasive species.
associated with water
and sediment ballast.
23
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Possible for subsea
Potential artificial reef
structures to increase
Footprint / physical effect (positive impacts
presence of
commercial or
for various species, fish
equipment: Rigs,
artisanal fisheries.
and fisheries). Noise
subsea equipment, Alternatively, possible
from subsea valves
pipelines, etc. reduction in fish
leading to disturbance
or shellfish due to
of fauna
disturbance.
Pollution of marine
Possible reduction
environment if not Possible negative
in artisanal or
Disposal of produced properly managed. impacts on tourism
waters
Mortality and and recreation (e.g.
(actual and perceived
morbidity to flora and recreational fishing).
impacts).
fauna.
Entrainment of
organisms. Chemicals Possible reduction
Possible negative
released in water Assimilation (and in artisanal or
Cooling waters: impacts on tourism
environment. Heated Water (for intake). dilution) services of commercial fisheries
Intake and outfall. and recreation (e.g.
waters. Mortality and receiving waters. (actual and perceived
morbidity of flora and impacts).
fauna.
Entrainment of
Desalination: organisms. Salts and Possible reduction
Water (for intake). Possible negative
Desalination for water chemicals released in in artisanal or
Assimilation (and impacts on tourism
for consumption and water environment. commercial fisheries
dilution) services of and recreation (e.g.
processes. Intake and Mortality and (actual and perceived
receiving waters. recreational fishing).
outfall. morbidity of flora and impacts).
fauna.
Chemical handling Assimilation services
Possible reduction Possible negative
and use: including Possible water (e.g. dilution and
in artisanal or impacts on tourism
fuel handling and quality contamination microbial action) to
commercial fisheries and recreation (e.g.
hazardous waste, associated with help break down
(especially perceived recreational fishing)
biofouling and permitted releases. and disperse oil and
impacts). actual and perceived).
corrosion protection chemicals.
24
Potential
Flaring and venting: Visual impacts to
e.g. from production communities, tourism
platforms / FPSOs and recreation.
Noise. Heat.
Reduction in
and perceived).
25
IPIECA/OGP
Wetland, river and lake habitats – decommissioning stage
Potential
Closure of
production and
injection wells: Noise and disturbance Disturbance (visual,
potential use of from ROVs. Impacts to auditory and physical)
explosives, or other marine mammals, fish of iconic species (e.g.
noise generating and benthic species. turtles, sturgeon).
activities
Disturbance of
Removal of
structures at the sea
tranquillity of area
surface: e.g. towing
Vessel presence. Noise. for local communities,
rigs using vessels visitors and iconic
species.
Equipment/facilities Change (increase or
Possible change
left in situ or partial decrease) in artisanal
Removal (or choice (increase or decrease)
not to remove)
removal. Positive or commercial fisheries
in iconic species and
structures on the sea
artificial reef effects. in the immediate area.
recreation activities
bed Possible contamination Possible negative
(e.g. recreational
resulting from impacts on fisheries
fishing).
corrosion. due to disturbance.
Noise impacts to
fauna (fish and marine Disturbance (visual,
Possible reduction
Use of explosives mammals) potentially auditory and physical)
offshore
in artisanal or
causing mortality and of iconic species (e.g.
morbidity. Secondary turtles, sturgeon).
impacts on fisheries.
Possible negative
Possible increase
impacts on tourism
Breaking up of Noise and vibration. in commercial or
and recreation (e.g.
offshore equipment Disposal of materials artisanal fisheries if
once brought potentially smothering submerge cleaned up
onshore Disturbance (visual,
and polluting habitats. structures back in sea
as artificial habitat.
of species on land.
26
Wetland, river and lake habitats – decommissioning stage
Potential
Contamination of
water supplies and
Disposal of waste Assimilation services impacts to fisheries (if
and managed impact to locals and
materials (assume this of receiving soil and it reaches main water
appropriately visitors. Impacts on
is done onshore) vegetation. bodies). Potentially
smothering and
waste materials.
fauna.
27
IPIECA/OGP
Polar habitats
Polar habitats are the areas surrounding the north and south poles. These areas include the Arctic Ocean,
Antarctica, Greenland, Alaska and northern parts of Europe including, for example, parts of Russia.
Polar habitats are characterized by darkness in mid winter and low temperatures resulting in a short
periods of high productivity. They also have extensive sea ice (with large seasonal geographic variations)
with a distinct assemblage of flora and fauna typically adapted to the harsh conditions. The Arctic is also
heavily relied upon in summer by migrating birds.
Polar habitats provide provisioning services in the form of food, clothing and fuel
Provisioning services:
from sources such as fish, mammals (seal, reindeer, etc.), sea birds, peat, reindeer moss, berries and
mushrooms. Many indigenous communities continue to rely on these resources and maintain close ties to
the environment. Aggregates, building materials and freshwater are also important provisioning services
in this region. Credit: Photos.com
Regulating services: Regulating services in polar habitats are perhaps less obvious and significant than
other habitats, but can still be important. They include for example, carbon sequestration, water filtration
and waste assimilation.
Cultural services: Cultural services in polar habitats include iconic species such as polar bears, penguins and the many endangered marine mammal species found seasonally
in Arctic waters. Natural areas in polar habitats also provide cultural and spiritual importance, particularly to indigenous Arctic people. In addition, there is a high cultural
value placed on maintaining traditional ways of life among indigenous communities, including subsistence hunting, fishing and other uses of the natural environment.
As the oil and gas industry moves into the frontier Arctic environment, this requires building extensive infrastructure through currently ecologically intact areas. Oil and gas
exploration has received much attention from public interest groups and NGOs. Since productivity in Polar ecosystems is limited to a short season, these ecosystems may take
a particularly long time to recover from disturbance. In more remote polar habitat, disposal of waste products, chemicals, cuttings and mud can be particularly challenging.
Important note: Blank cells in the tables below are generally either ‘not relevant’ or unlikely to have significant dependencies or impacts. However, the checklist is not meant
to be exhaustive, and there will always be exceptions.
28
Polar habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage
Potential
Offshore
Vessels: Mobilization, Visual impacts to
operation and general communities, tourism
presence and recreation.
effort).
overuse.
Possible reduction
in artisanal or
Noise impacts to
commercial fisheries Disturbance (visual,
marine mammals
and fish or shellfish for auditory and physical)
Seismic shooting: At / benthic fauna
consumption. Possible of iconic species
negative impacts (e.g. whales, seals,
Physical effects from
on fisheries due to otters).
streamers
invasive species.
29
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Possible increase
in commercial or
artisanal fisheries
resulting from the rig
Noise impacts to acting as habitat;
marine mammals impacts would have Disturbance (visual,
Seismic shooting: Use / benthic fauna to accrue outside of auditory and physical)
of ocean bottom cables from acoustic blasts. any exclusion zones. of iconic species
on the sea bed Physical disturbance Possible negative (e.g. whales, seals,
to seabed and benthic impacts on fisheries otters).
fauna due to disturbance.
Possible negative
impacts on native
species due to alien-
invasive species.
etc. and fauna.
and iconic species.
Onshore
Modification, Use of local natural Change (reduction
fragmentation and materials (e.g. or increase) in local services from features (e.g. bird
Access: Construction removal of habitats aggregates) for roads, Natural flood and people's ability to hunt clearing trees and
watching areas)
and operation of and agricultural land. etc. In polar habitats erosion control and gather wild foods vegetation. Reduction
and settlements.
access roads and Terrain modification. it is possible that of surrounding (e.g. meat, berries), in flood and erosion Disturbance (visual,
airstrips. Noise, dust and freshwater resources vegetation. and to harvest timber control and water
vibrations. Visual may be utilized for the and agricultural purification by clearing of wild habitats, iconic
disturbance. creation of ice roads. outputs. vegetation. species (e.g. bears,
wolves, bird species)
and landscapes.
30
Potential
Temporary reduction
in local people's ability Temporary loss of
to hunt and gather access to cultural,
Exclusion zones: wild foods (e.g. meat, livelihood and
and maintenance of
Temporary exclusion of berries), and to harvest recreation features.
people from a defined timber and agricultural Protection of habitats
area. outputs. Potential and species from
land conversion and
hunting).
overuse.
cultural (e.g. spiritual
trees) or recreation
Loss of carbon features (e.g. bird
from wastes and
Possible pollution of sequestration watching areas)
water supply. Potential and settlements.
Use of local natural changes to supply of Disturbance (visual,
ancillary camps: biological and disposing of liquid and vegetation. Reduction auditory and physical)
camps. introduction of alien of wild habitats, iconic
species (typically species (e.g. bears,
Potential introduction provide clean water purification by clearing wolves, bird species)
negative impacts).
of alien-invasive vegetation. and landscapes.
species.
Potential impacts on
spiritual or religious
value of an area and
other non-use values.
Depletion of water and Use of local crops, Use of local recreation
local food resources. livestock, medicinal activities for workers Possible reduction in
workforce: Providing use of water and meat,
Reduction in flora and plants, water, (e.g. walking, bird- iconic species.
food and water, etc. berries, etc. hunted
fauna. firewood, etc. wildlife watching, etc.)
and gathered.
31
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Loss of habitat and Change (reduction
agricultural land. or increase) in local Loss of carbon
Seismic survey sequestration Potential impacts from
Terrain modification. people's ability to hunt
activities: Clearing services from alien-invasive species
Noise, dust and and gather wild foods clearing trees and
lines, deployment and and disturbance
disturbance. Potential (e.g. meat, berries), vegetation. Reduction
retrieval of geophones, (visual, auditory and
introduction of alien- and to harvest timber in flood and erosion
shot hole drilling, physical) of iconic
invasive species and agricultural control and water
and terrain access for species (e.g. bears,
Potential introduction outputs. Potential purification by clearing wolves, bird species).
vibroseis trucks
of alien-invasive (negative) impacts from vegetation.
species alien-invasive species.
32
Polar habitats – drilling – exploratory and development stages
Potential
Offshore
Possible increase
in commercial or
Mobilization, disturbance to fauna. impacts would have
of iconic species
operation and general Visual presence. to accrue outside of
(e.g. whales, seals,
presence Alien-invasive species any exclusion zones.
otters).
invasive species.
people from a defined perceived impacts in Protection of habitats
effort).
overuse.
Seabed interaction: Possible reduction
to seabed habitats,
from the use of in artisanal or
species, spawning
anchors, rigs, etc. commercial fisheries.
areas and fishing
grounds.
Underwater noise.
Possible reduction
in artisanal or
33
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Water quality and
seabed impacts
(e.g. smothering of
If disposed onshore: in fish or shellfish
Assimilation services Loss of habitat could
(Intrusion into water for consumption Loss of habitat could
(e.g. dilution and result in loss of
Mud and cuttings: courses and aquifers. due to marine / result in loss of
microbial action) to associated cultural
Management and Water withdrawal. freshwater impacts; associated regulating
help break down services such as
disposal Surface drainage possible reduction in services such as
and disperse oil and aesthetic and non-use
alteration for mud and provisioning foods or assimilative services.
chemicals. values.
waste storage. Pressure water due to onshore
on waste facilities. disposal.
Noise. Heat.
Possible reduction
Chemical handling in artisanal or
and use: including commercial fisheries
impacts).
chemicals.
Reduction in
Risk of blow outs, oil provisioning foods recreation and iconic
spills, pollution, fires, through contamination species through
explosions and ship by oil and chemicals oil and chemical
groundings. (actual and perceived). contamination (actual
smoke. chemicals.
and perceived).
34
Potential
Onshore
watching areas)
and settlements.
and landscapes.
Temporary reduction
and maintenance of
area outputs. Potential and species from
land conversion and
hunting).
overuse.
35
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
from wastes and
negative impacts).
species.
workforce: providing use of water and meat,
and gathered.
Aquifer intrusion.
Use of water.
hydrogeology.
36
Potential
and surface waters.
Noise. Heat.
Chemical handling
and use: including
drilling additives
Reduction in
Water, soil and Use of water to control Assimilation services
air contamination. fires. Use of natural (e.g. dilution and Reduction of regulating
Risk of blow outs, provisioning foods recreation and iconic
Mortality and products (e.g. sheep's microbial action) to services from loss of
oil spills, chemical through contamination species through
morbidity to flora and wool, vegetation) to help break down habitat extent and
spills, pollution, fires, by oil and chemicals oil and chemical
fauna. Noise, fire and absorb oil. Use of sand and disperse oil and quality.
explosions, etc. (actual and perceived). contamination (actual
smoke. in bags to block oil. chemicals.
and perceived).
37
IPIECA/OGP
Polar habitats – construction stage
Potential
Offshore
operation and general of iconic species
presence (e.g. whales, seals,
otters).
effort).
overuse.
human communities
and fauna.
and iconic species.
grounds. values.
38
Potential
Sedimentation
Possible reduction
and turbidity. Loss
in artisanal or Potential loss of
Dredging (offshore of, alteration and Possible negative
commercial fisheries. erosion and shoreline
or in coastal areas smothering of seabed. impacts for marine
for jetties, etc.): Possible uses for protection services
Impacts to seabed tourism (e.g.
including spoil disposal habitats, species, materials (sand, rocks) provided coral reefs, if
removed through the removed in dredging.
spawning areas and
dredging process.
Possible reduction
Chemical handling Possible water (e.g. dilution and Possible negative
in artisanal or
and use: including quality contamination microbial action) to impacts for marine
pre-commissioning associated with help break down tourism (e.g.
chemicals permitted releases. and disperse oil and recreational fishing).
impacts).
chemicals.
Reduction in
and perceived).
Possible for subsea
Facility / equipment Potential artificial reef commercial or
footprint: Construction effect (positive impacts artisanal fisheries.
of subsea equipment, for various species, fish Alternatively, possible
pipelines, etc. and fisheries) reduction in fish
or shellfish due to
disturbance.
39
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Onshore
Loss of carbon
Possible reduction in sequestration
Facility footprint: Modification, Use of local natural local people's ability services from
Construction of fragmentation and materials (e.g. Natural flood, erosion to hunt and gather clearing trees and Reduction in access to
facility and pipelines; loss of habitats and aggregates) for and storm controls at wild foods (e.g. meat, vegetation. Reduction cultural or recreation
temporary or agricultural land. foundations, concrete, site. berries), and to harvest in flood and erosion features
permanent presence Terrain modification. etc. timber and agricultural control and water
outputs. purification by clearing
vegetation.
watching areas)
and settlements.
and landscapes.
Temporary reduction
and maintenance of
land conversion and
hunting).
overuse.
40
Potential
Disposal and pollution Disposal and pollution
from wastes and from wastes and
wastewater, having Assimilation service wastewater, having
water supply. Potential
Workforce and visual, physical, of rivers, soils, etc. visual, physical,
Use of local natural changes to supply of Use of local natural
ancillary camps: biological and disposing of liquid and biological and
materials for building wild foods through materials for building
Construction, chemical impacts. solid wastes. Water chemical impacts.
camps. introduction of alien camps.
operation, closure Cutting down of trees. filtration service to Cutting down of trees.
species (typically
Potential introduction provide clean water Potential introduction
negative impacts).
of alien-invasive of alien-invasive
species. species.
and iconic species.
Modification,
Possible reduction in sequestration
removal of habitats. services from
local people's ability
Site preparation: Modification to clearing trees and
to hunt and gather Loss of access to
Vegetation clearance, drainage and vegetation. Reduction cultural and recreation
wild foods (e.g. meat,
excavation, hydrology regimes in flood and erosion
berries), and to harvest features
dewatering, trenching (groundwater, surface control and water
timber and agricultural
water, soil). Soil purification by clearing
outputs.
and sedimentation.
Smothering of
ground level flora
and potentially
Soil disposal: from
site clearance
Contamination of
aquifers. Introduction
of alien-invasive
species.
41
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
and gathered.
and dust from
construction works
affecting flora and Water filtration Disturbance and loss
Construction work: (sand, gravel, rocks, natural water supplies
fauna. Depletion of services to provide of animals and crops
Digging, building, etc. etc.). Timber from downstream (surface
natural resources for clean water. for food.
forests, excavating
sand, etc.
Reduction in
and perceived).
42
Polar habitats – operation stage
Potential
Offshore
Possible increase
in commercial or
Operation and general disturbance to fauna. auditory and physical)
impacts would have
presence (rigs, FPSOs, Visual presence. of iconic species
to accrue outside of
support vessels) Alien-invasive species any exclusion zones.
otters).
invasive species.
Reduction in local
Loss of access to
people's ability to fish
Reduced human access cultural, livelihood and
Exclusion zones: (restricted access to
to an area. Protection recreation features.
Permanent exclusion of fishing grounds and/or
of habitats and species Protection of habitats
boats from a defined landing sites). Potential
(e.g. reduced fishing and species from
area increase in key species
effort). misuse and overuse by
due to protection from
people.
overuse.
human communities
and fauna.
and iconic species.
Noise. Physical
presence of ships
Possible impacts Disturbance (visual,
on artisanal and auditory and physical)
Shuttle tankers: for to fauna. Visual
commercial fisheries of iconic species
oil export presence. Alien-
due to disturbance and (e.g. whales, seals,
invasive species
alien-invasive species. otters).
43
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Possible for subsea
presence of
commercial or
equipment: Rigs,
from subsea valves
or shellfish due to
of fauna
disturbance.
Pollution of marine
Possible negative
environment if not
Possible reduction impacts for marine
Disposal of produced properly managed.
waters
in artisanal or tourism and recreation
Mortality and
commercial fisheries. (e.g. recreational
fishing).
fauna.
Entrainment of
organisms. Chemicals Possible negative
Possible reduction
released in water Assimilation (and impacts for marine
Cooling waters: in artisanal or
environment. Heated Water (for intake). dilution) services of tourism and recreation
Intake and outfall. commercial fisheries
waters. Mortality and receiving waters. (e.g. recreational
(actual and perceived).
morbidity of flora and fishing).
fauna.
Entrainment of
Desalination: organisms. Salts and Possible negative
Water (for intake). Possible reduction
Desalination for water chemicals released in impacts for marine
Assimilation (and in artisanal or
for consumption and water environment. tourism and recreation
dilution) services of commercial fisheries
processes. Intake and Mortality and (e.g. recreational
receiving waters. (actual and perceived).
outfall. morbidity of flora and fishing).
fauna.
Chemical handling Assimilation services
and use: including
Possible negative
Possible water (e.g. dilution and Possible reduction
fuel handling and impacts for marine
quality contamination microbial action) to in artisanal or
hazardous waste, tourism and recreation
associated with help break down commercial fisheries
(e.g. recreational
biofouling and permitted releases. and disperse oil and (actual and perceived).
fishing).
44
Potential
Noise. Heat.
Reduction in
and perceived).
Onshore
Loss of carbon
Reduction in local sequestration Reduction in access to
Use of local natural people's ability to hunt services from cultural or recreation
Facility footprint: Fragmentation of materials (e.g. Natural flood, erosion and gather wild foods clearing trees and features. Disturb
Operation of facility, habitats. Noise. Light. aggregates) for and storm controls at (e.g. meat, berries), vegetation. Reduction tranquillity of area
presence Atmospheric emissions. foundations, concrete, site. and to harvest timber in flood and erosion for local communities,
etc. and agricultural control and water visitors and iconic
outputs. purification by clearing species.
vegetation.
Fragmentation cultural (e.g. spiritual
Use of local natural Change (reduction
of habitats and trees) or recreation
materials (e.g. or increase) in local
agricultural land. features (e.g. bird
aggregates) for roads, Natural flood and people's ability to hunt
Access: Presence and Noise, dust and watching areas)
etc. In polar habitats erosion control and gather wild foods
operation of access vibrations. Light. and settlements.
it is possible that of surrounding (e.g. meat, berries),
roads and airstrips. Visual disturbance. Disturbance (visual,
freshwater resources vegetation. and to harvest timber
Atmospheric emissions auditory and physical)
may be utilized for the and agricultural
(greenhouse gases and of wild habitats, iconic
creation of ice roads. outputs.
air quality). species (e.g. bears,
and landscapes.
45
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Reduction in local
people's ability to hunt
Reduced human access Loss of access to
and gather wild foods
to an area. Protection cultural, livelihood and
Exclusion zones: (e.g. meat, berries),
and maintenance of recreation features.
Permanent exclusion of and to harvest timber
habitats and species Protection of habitats
people from a defined and agricultural
(e.g. reduced logging, and species from
area outputs. Potential
land conversion and misuse and overuse by
increase in key species
hunting). people.
due to protection from
overuse.
from wastes and
water supply. Potential services from and settlements.
negative impacts).
species.
and iconic species.
46
Potential
and gathered.
Depletion of water
Water supply and
renewable energy
supply
etc.
Entrainment of
Desalination for water chemicals released in Use of marine/ Assimilation (and
for consumption and water environment. brackish water supply dilution) services of
processes. Intake and Mortality and to desalinate. receiving waters.
affected.
fauna.
waters, groundwater
Possible negative
and marine
Possible pollution of impacts for marine
waters
water supplies and tourism and recreation
properly managed.
decline in fisheries. (e.g. recreational
Mortality and
fishing).
fauna.
Entrainment of
organisms. Chemicals Reduction in regulating
released in water Assimilation (and Possible pollution of services associated
environment. Heated dilution) services of water supplies and with decline in habitat
Intake and outfall cooling. and iconic species
waters. Mortality and receiving waters. decline in fisheries. extent and quality (e.g.
affected.
morbidity of flora and receiving waters)
fauna.
47
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Contamination of
if not disposed Possible pollution of Visual and aesthetic
Disposal of waste Assimilation services
and managed water supplies and impact to locals and
materials: General, of receiving soil and
appropriately impacts to fisheries visitors. Impacts on
hazardous vegetation.
potentially causing through entrainment. iconic species.
smothering and
fauna.
Contamination
Pollution of water trees) or recreation
of soil, water,
supplies and impacts features (e.g. bird
to fisheries (if it watching areas)
Wastewater if not disposed Assimilation services of
reaches main water and settlements.
management and managed receiving waters.
bodies). Possible useful Disturbance (visual,
appropriately,
products in the waste auditory and physical)
potentially poisoning
materials. of wild habitats, iconic
flora and fauna.
species (e.g. bears,
and landscapes.
Impacts to local
Visual presence: from
permanent presence
of the facility / traffic
movements, etc.
amenity users.
Reduction in
and perceived).
48
Polar habitats – decommissioning stage
Potential
Offshore
Closure of
production and Disturbance (visual,
injection wells: Noise and disturbance
potential use of from ROVs. Impacts to
of iconic species
explosives, or other marine mammals, fish
noise generating and benthic species.
otters).
activities
Disturbance of
Removal of
species.
Possible change
Equipment/facilities
(increase or decrease)
left in situ or partial
Removal (or choice Change (increase or in iconic species
not to remove)
removal. Positive
decrease) in artisanal (e.g. whales, seals,
artificial reef effects.
or commercial fishing otters). and marine
bed Possible contamination
in the immediate area. recreation activities
resulting from
(e.g. recreational
corrosion.
fishing)
Noise impacts to
fauna (fish and marine
Use of explosives mammals) potentially
offshore
in artisanal or of iconic species
causing mortality and
commercial fisheries. (e.g. whales, seals,
morbidity. Secondary
otters).
Possible negative
Possible increase
impacts on tourism
and recreation (e.g.
once brought potentially smothering submerge cleaned up
onshore Disturbance (visual,
of species on land.
49
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Contamination of
water supplies and
if not disposed Assimilation services Visual and aesthetic
Disposal of waste impacts to fisheries (if
and managed of receiving soil and impact to locals and
materials (assume this it reaches main water
appropriately vegetation (disposal on visitors. Impacts on
is done onshore) bodies). Potentially
potentially causing land). iconic species.
smothering and
waste materials.
fauna.
Onshore
watching areas)
and settlements.
and landscapes.
50
Potential
from wastes and
Workforce and wastewater, having Assimilation service services from
ancillary camps: visual, physical, of rivers, soils, etc. clearing trees and
The use of any biological and disposing of liquid and vegetation. Reduction auditory and physical)
decommissioning Potential introduction provide clean water purification by clearing wolves, bird species)
negative impacts).
species.
Temporary reduction
and maintenance of
land conversion and
hunting).
overuse.
Closure of all
51
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Disturbance of
ground components
and gravel from
species.
Noise and vibration. (e.g. dilution and
Disturbance of local
Breaking up of Disposal of materials microbial action) to
communities and
equipment potentially smothering help break down
visitors to amenity sites.
and polluting habitats. and disperse oil and
chemicals.
Contamination of
water supplies and
smothering and
waste materials.
fauna.
52
Potential
Contamination
of soil, water,
features (e.g. bird
groundwater resources Possible pollution of
watching areas)
Wastewater if not disposed Assimilation services of water supply (and
and settlements.
management and managed receiving waters. fisheries if it reaches
appropriately, main water bodies).
flora and fauna.
species (e.g. bears,
and landscapes.
Creation and
affected. affected.
species.
Increased stress on
resources resulting
and goods.
fauna.
53
IPIECA/OGP
Desert and arid habitats
Desert and semi-arid habitats are typified by low average rainfall, high evaporation rates, and high mean
temperatures.
Provisioning services: In the desert environment many plants are slow growing and sparse, but play a crucial
role both in food provision for animals and people. Other provisioning services include freshwater, also limited
and valuable where found, wild game (e.g. antelope) and habitat used by local people as grazing land for
livestock.
Regulating services: Where plants are found in the desert, they supply important erosion control services,
with erosion being a key characteristic of the wind, heavy rainfall and flash flooding that can arise in the desert
habitat. Waste assimilation is also an important regulating service in desert areas.
Cultural services: Deserts and arid habitats are home to a number of iconic and culturally important species,
including lions, antelope and large birds of prey, together with trees such as the Baobab. Some desert areas are
important for nature-based tourism, while others have important spiritual and cultural value to local populations.
Oil and gas operations in the desert environment may damage vegetation and landscapes. Vehicle tracks (e.g.
from 4WD vehicles and seismic trucks) can leave scars in the landscape that remain for an extensive period.
Water regulation and control issues in the desert environment are particularly relevant due to the scarcity of
water resources. Aquifers and water wells may be relied upon by local communities for their water supply,
so it is crucial that impacts on the water supply are assessed while giving the livelihoods of local populations
appropriate consideration. Local people in a desert environment may include nomadic peoples who use the
desert resources at different times of the year, often following seasonal patterns in fauna and flora based on
water availability. In desert areas, existing waste management services will often not be accessible and disposal
of waste, chemicals, cuttings and mud often has to take place on site. Credit: Photos.com
54
Desert and arid habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage
Potential
Modification, trees) or recreation
fragmentation and Change (reduction features (e.g. bird
Access: Construction removal of habitats Use of local natural Natural flood and or increase) in local watching areas)
Reduction in flood
and operation of and agricultural land. materials (e.g. erosion control people's ability to hunt and settlements.
and erosion control by
access roads and Terrain modification. aggregates) for roads, of surrounding and gather wild foods Disturbance (visual,
clearing vegetation.
airstrips. Noise, dust and etc. vegetation. (e.g. meat, plants) auditory and physical)
vibrations. Visual and to graze livestock. of wild habitats,
disturbance. iconic species (e.g.
game animals and
bird species) and
landscapes.
Temporary reduction
Temporary loss of
Reduced human access in local people's ability
access to cultural,
to an area. Protection to hunt and gather
Exclusion zones: livelihood and
and maintenance of wild foods (e.g. meat,
Temporary exclusion of recreation features.
habitats and species plants) and to graze
people from a defined Protection of habitats
(e.g. reduced logging, livestock. Potential
area. and species from
land conversion and increase in key species
misuse and overuse by
hunting). due to protection from
people.
overuse.
55
IPIECA/OGP
Desert and arid habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage
Potential
Disposal and pollution features (e.g. bird
from wastes and watching areas)
Possible pollution of and settlements.
wastewater, having
Workforce and visual, physical, Reduction in flood and Disturbance (visual,
Use of local natural changes to supply of auditory and physical)
ancillary camps: biological and Water filtration service erosion control and
materials for building wild foods through of wild habitats,
Construction, operation chemical impacts. to provide clean water water purification by
camps. introduction of alien iconic species (e.g.
and closure. Cutting down of trees. clearing vegetation.
species (typically game animals (lion,
Potential introduction antelope, etc.) and
negative impacts).
of alien-invasive bird species) and
species. landscapes. Potential
impacts on spiritual or
religious value of an
area and other non-
use values.
Depletion of water and Use of local recreation New local market but Possible reduction in
Provisioning Use of local water
local food resources. activities for workers increased pressure on iconic species (e.g.
workforce: Providing resources, crops,
Reduction in flora and (e.g. walking, bird- use of water, wild birds, reptiles) from
food and water, etc. livestock, etc.
fauna. wildlife watching, etc.) meat, etc. increased hunting.
Loss of habitat and
Change (reduction
agricultural land.
Seismic survey or increase) in local Potential impacts from
Terrain modification.
activities: Clearing people's ability to hunt alien-invasive species
Noise, dust and
lines, deployment and and gather wild foods Reduction in flood and disturbance
disturbance. Potential
retrieval of geophones, (e.g. meat, plants) and erosion control by (visual, auditory and
introduction of alien-
shot hole drilling, and to graze livestock. clearing vegetation. physical) of iconic
invasive species
and terrain access for Potential (negative) species (e.g. birds,
Potential introduction
vibroseis trucks impacts from alien- reptiles).
of alien-invasive
invasive species.
species
56
Desert and arid habitats – drilling – exploration and development stage
Potential
Reduction in flood
game animals and
bird species) and
landscapes.
Reduction in local
Temporary loss of
Reduced human access people's ability to
access to cultural,
to an area. Protection hunt and gather wild
and maintenance of foods (e.g. meat,
area and species from
people.
overuse.
57
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
wastewater, having
Construction, chemical impacts. to provide clean water water purification by
operation, closure Cutting down of trees. clearing vegetation.
negative impacts).
area and other non-
use values.
workforce: providing resources, crops,
Reduction in flora and (e.g. walking, bird- use of water, wild birds, reptiles) from
Aquifer intrusion.
Use of water.
hydrogeology.
58
Potential
and surface waters.
Noise. Heat.
Chemical handling
and use: including
drilling additives
Reduction in
Water, soil and Assimilation services Reduction in
Accidental events: Use of water to control local livelihoods,
air contamination. (e.g. dilution and provisioning foods Reduction of regulating
Risk of blow outs, fires. Use of natural recreation and iconic
Mortality and microbial action) to and water through services from loss of
oil spills, chemical materials to absorb species through
morbidity to flora and help break down contamination by oil habitat extent and
spills, pollution, fires, and prevent the spread oil and chemical
fauna. Noise, fire and and disperse oil and and chemicals (actual quality.
explosions, etc. of oil. contamination (actual
smoke. chemicals. and perceived).
and perceived).
59
IPIECA/OGP
Desert and arid habitats – construction stage
Potential
Facility footprint: Modification, Use of local natural Reduction in local
Construction of fragmentation and materials (e.g. Natural flood, erosion people's ability to hunt Reduction in flood Reduction in access to
facility and pipelines; loss of habitats and aggregates) for and storm controls at and gather wild foods and erosion control by cultural or recreation
temporary or agricultural land. foundations, concrete, site. (e.g. meat, plants) clearing vegetation. features
permanent presence Terrain modification. etc. and to graze livestock.
Reduction in flood
game animals and
bird species) and
landscapes.
Temporary reduction
Temporary loss of
access to cultural,
people.
overuse.
60
Potential
wastewater, having
Construction, chemical impacts. to provide clean water water purification by
operation, closure Cutting down of trees. clearing vegetation.
negative impacts).
area and other non-
use values.
and iconic species.
Modification,
fragmentation and
removal of habitats.
Reduction in local
Site preparation: Modification to
people's ability to hunt Reduction in flood Loss of access to
Vegetation clearance, drainage and
and gather wild foods and erosion control by cultural and recreation
excavation, hydrology regimes
(e.g. meat, plants) clearing vegetation. features
dewatering, trenching (groundwater, surface
and to graze livestock.
water, soil). Soil
erosion. Water runoff
and sedimentation.
61
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Smothering of
ground level flora
and potentially
Soil disposal: from
site clearance
Contamination of
of alien-invasive
species.
Reduction in flora and (e.g. walking, bird- use of water, wild birds and reptiles) from
and dust from
construction works
Interference with
affecting flora and Use of aggregates Water filtration
Construction work: Disturbance and loss of natural water supplies
fauna. Depletion of (sand, gravel, rocks, services to provide
Digging, building, etc. animals downstream (surface
natural resources for etc.). Use of water. clean water.
and groundwater).
forests, excavating
sand, etc.
Landscape
Visual impacts to the Use of aggregates Visual and aesthetic
alteration: from
local landscape. Import (sand, gravel, rocks, impact on enjoyment
presence of the facility
of non-local species. etc.). Use of water. of locals and visitors.
and construction work
Reduction in
and perceived).
62
Desert and arid habitats – operation stage
Potential
Reduction in access to
Use of local natural Reduction in local cultural or recreation
Facility footprint: Fragmentation of materials (e.g. Natural flood, erosion people's ability to hunt Reduction in flood features. Disturb
Operation of facility, habitats. Noise. Light. aggregates) for and storm controls at and gather wild foods and erosion control by tranquillity of area
presence Atmospheric emissions. foundations, concrete, site. (e.g. meat, plants) clearing vegetation. for local communities,
etc. and to graze livestock. visitors and iconic
species.
Fragmentation
of habitats and
Change (reduction features (e.g. bird
agricultural land.
Use of local natural Natural flood and or increase) in local watching areas)
Access: Presence and Noise, dust and
materials (e.g. erosion control people's ability to hunt and settlements.
operation of access vibrations. Light.
aggregates) for roads, of surrounding and gather wild foods Disturbance (visual,
roads and airstrips. Visual disturbance.
etc. vegetation. (e.g. meat, plants) auditory and physical)
and to graze livestock. of wild habitats,
iconic species (e.g.
air quality).
game animals and
bird species) and
landscapes.
Reduction in local
Reduced human access people's ability to Loss of access to
to an area. Protection hunt and gather wild cultural, livelihood and
Exclusion zones:
and maintenance of foods (e.g. meat, recreation features.
habitats and species plants) and to graze Protection of habitats
(e.g. reduced logging, livestock. Potential and species from
area
land conversion and increase in key species misuse and overuse by
hunting). due to protection from people.
overuse.
63
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
wastewater, having
water supply. Potential Disturbance (visual,
Workforce and visual, physical,
Use of local natural changes to supply of Reduction in flood auditory and physical)
ancillary camps: biological and Water filtration service
materials for building wild foods through and erosion control by of wild habitats,
Construction, chemical impacts. to provide clean water
camps. introduction of alien clearing vegetation. iconic species (e.g.
operation, closure Cutting down of trees.
negative impacts).
area and other non-
use values.
and iconic species.
Reduction in flora and (e.g. walking, bird- use of water, wild birds and reptiles) from
Depletion of water
Water supply and
renewable energy
supply
etc.
64
Potential
Entrainment of
Desalination for water chemicals released in
for consumption and water environment.
processes. Intake and Mortality and
affected.
fauna.
waters, groundwater
and marine
waters properly managed.
Mortality and
fauna.
Entrainment of
organisms. Chemicals
released in water Possible pollution of
environment. Heated water supplies and
Intake and outfall. cooling. and iconic species
waters. Mortality and decline in fisheries.
affected.
morbidity of flora and
fauna.
Contamination of
water supplies and
Disposal of waste Assimilation services impacts to fisheries (if
materials: General, of receiving soil and it reaches main water
hazardous vegetation. bodies). Potentially
smothering and
waste materials.
fauna.
65
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Contamination trees) or recreation
Pollution of water features (e.g. bird
of soil, water,
supplies and impacts watching areas)
to fisheries (if it and settlements.
Wastewater if not disposed
reaches main water Disturbance (visual,
management and managed
bodies). Possible useful auditory and physical)
appropriately,
products in the waste of wild habitats,
materials. iconic species (e.g.
flora and fauna.
game animals (lion,
antelope, etc.) and
bird species) and
landscapes.
Impacts to local
amenity users.
Reduction in
and perceived).
66
Desert and arid habitats – decommissioning stage
Potential
Reduction in flood
game animals and
bird species) and
landscapes.
Workforce and wastewater, having
ancillary camps: visual, physical, Reduction in flood and Disturbance (visual,
Use of local natural Assimilation services changes to supply of auditory and physical)
The use of any biological and erosion control and
materials for building of receiving soil and wild foods through of wild habitats,
temporary camps or chemical impacts. water purification by
camps. vegetation. introduction of alien iconic species (e.g.
areas required for Cutting down of trees. clearing vegetation.
decommissioning Potential introduction
negative impacts). antelope, etc.) and
area and other non-
use values.
67
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Temporary reduction
Temporary loss of
access to cultural,
people.
overuse.
Closure of all
Disturbance of
ground components
and gravel from
species.
Noise and vibration. (e.g. dilution and Disturbance of local
Breaking up of Disposal of materials microbial action) to communities and
equipment potentially smothering help break down visitors to amenity sites
and polluting habitats. and disperse oil and and to iconic species.
chemicals.
68
Potential
Contamination of
water supplies and
smothering and
waste materials.
fauna.
Contamination trees) or recreation
of soil, water, features (e.g. bird
groundwater resources Possible pollution of watching areas)
Wastewater if not disposed Assimilation services of water supply (and and settlements.
management and managed receiving waters. fisheries if it reaches Disturbance (visual,
appropriately, main water bodies). auditory and physical)
potentially poisoning of wild habitats,
flora and fauna. iconic species (e.g.
game animals (lion,
antelope, etc.) and
bird species) and
landscapes.
Creation and
affected. affected.
species.
69
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Increased stress on
resources resulting
and goods.
fauna.
70
Deep water habitats
The ‘deep water’ environment refers here to areas of ocean with a depth of around 300 m and deeper. The
deep water biological environment includes a range of macrofauna species which have evolved to cope
with the specific conditions found at these water depths (e.g. sea cucumbers, sea urchins and molluscs) as
well as a range of fish species, and marine mammals. Of particular note in the deep water environment
are the assemblages of fauna found around specific geological formations, for example ‘cold seeps’, mud
volcanoes, banks or mountains and hot springs. In particular, ‘chemosynthetic’ ecological communities exist
that get their energy from chemical reactions rather than photosynthesis.
Provisioning services: Commercial fishing is the most significant provisioning service provided by deep
water habitats, with fishing for long-ranging species such as tuna, sardines and marlin prevalent. Artisanal
fishing is less common at these depths. There is also considerable scope for genetic and pharmaceutical
products from the diverse range of benthic species, many of which have yet to be discovered.
Regulating services: Deep water ecosystems provide important waste assimilation services both in the Credit: New Zealand-American Submarine Ring
of Fire 2005 Exploration; NOAA Vents Program.
water column and in the benthic substrate. Plankton can play an important carbon sequestration function. In
addition, predator species may play a key role in biological control against alien-invasive species introduced
through ballast waters.
Cultural services: Marine tourism is less prevalent in deep water environments. However, these areas often include migration routes for marine mammals, birds and
reptiles, including many culturally iconic species such as whales, albatrosses and turtles.
Oil and gas operations in this environment are typified often by the use of Floating Production Units (FPUs) or Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessels (FPSOs)
to gather and process hydrocarbons, due to the depths and distances from shore, key connected issues being underwater sound and marine mammal interactions and
impacts to commercial fishing. Accidental spills in the deep water environment can impact shoreline habitats and have complex poorly understood implications for deep
benthic habitats and the ocean food chain.
71
IPIECA/OGP
Deep water habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage
Potential
Noise and light.
Physical presence Assimilation services Possible reduction in
of ships leading to (e.g. dilution and commercial fisheries.
disturbance to fauna. microbial action) to Possible impacts
Visual presence. help break down on fisheries due to
presence whales, porpoises,
Alien-invasive species and disperse oil and disturbance and alien-
sea birds, turtles).
associated with water chemicals. invasive species.
Temporary reduction
in artisanal or
commercial fishing
Exclusion zones: (restricted access
Temporary exclusion of to fishing grounds);
boats from a defined perceived impacts in
area particular. In deep
effort).
water commercial
fishing may be more
relevant than artisanal
Noise impacts to of iconic species (e.g.
marine mammals whales, porpoises,
Seismic shooting: At / benthic fauna sea birds, turtles).
Turtles may be
a particularly
Physical effects from impacted species
streamers physically by
becoming entangled
in cables.
Noise impacts to
marine mammals Disturbance (visual,
Seismic shooting: Use / benthic fauna auditory and physical)
of ocean bottom cables from acoustic blasts. of iconic species (e.g.
on the sea bed Physical disturbance whales, porpoises,
to seabed and benthic sea birds, turtles).
fauna
72
Deep water habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage
Potential
Disturbance of iconic
species (e.g. whales,
porpoises, sea birds,
etc. and fauna.
turtles).
73
IPIECA/OGP
Deep water habitats – drilling – exploration and development stages
Potential
Possible increase in
Noise and light.
Physical presence Assimilation services
acting as habitat; Disturbance (visual,
Rigs and vessels: of ships leading to (e.g. dilution and
impacts would have auditory and physical)
Mobilization, disturbance to fauna. microbial action) to
to accrue outside of of iconic species (e.g.
operation and general Visual presence. help break down
any exclusion zones. whales, porpoises,
presence Alien-invasive species and disperse oil and
Possible impacts sea birds, turtles).
associated with water chemicals.
on fisheries due to
invasive species.
Temporary reduction
in artisanal or
commercial fishing
Reduced human access (restricted access
Exclusion zones:
to an area. Protection to fishing grounds);
Temporary exclusion of
of habitats and species perceived impacts in
(e.g. reduced fishing particular. Potential
area
effort). local increase in
key species due
to protection from
overuse.
Possible reduction
in commercial or
Seabed interaction: artisanal fisheries
to seabed habitats,
from the use of through impacts to
species, spawning
anchors, rigs, etc. benthic fauna which
areas and fishing
may constitute a source
grounds.
of food for fish.
Underwater noise.
whales, porpoises,
74
Deep water habitats – drilling – exploration and development stages
Potential
Water quality and
seabed impacts
(e.g. smothering of
If disposed onshore: in commercial or
(Intrusion into water artisanal fisheries Loss of habitat could
result in loss of
Mud and cuttings: courses and aquifers. (especially perceived result in loss of
associated cultural
Management and Water withdrawal. impacts). Possible associated regulating
services such as
disposal Surface drainage reduction in services such as
aesthetic and non-use
alteration for mud and provisioning foods and assimilative services.
values.
waste storage. Pressure use of water due to
on waste facilities. onshore disposal.
Flaring: as required Assimilation services
during drilling (e.g. for (of GHGs e.g. CO2
extended well tests) into oceans)
Noise. Heat.
Possible reduction
Chemical handling in commercial or
and use: including artisanal fisheries
impacts).
chemicals.
Reduction in
provisioning foods
through contamination Reduction in
Accidental events: by oil and chemicals local livelihoods,
Risk of blow outs, oil (actual and perceived). recreation and iconic
spills, pollution, fires, Both large scale species through
explosions and ship commercial and oil and chemical
groundings. artisanal fishing contamination (actual
smoke. chemicals.
could be impacted and perceived).
depending on the size
and extent of the spill
75
IPIECA/OGP
Deep water habitats – construction stage
Potential
Noise and light.
Physical presence Assimilation services Possible reduction in
of ships leading to (e.g. dilution and commercial fisheries.
disturbance to fauna. microbial action) to Possible impacts
Visual presence. help break down on fisheries due to
presence whales, porpoises,
Alien-invasive species and disperse oil and disturbance and alien-
associated with water chemicals. invasive species.
Temporary reduction
in artisanal or
commercial fishing
Reduced human access (restricted access
Exclusion zones:
to an area. Protection to fishing grounds);
Temporary exclusion of
of habitats and species perceived impacts in
(e.g. reduced fishing particular. Potential
area
effort). local increase in
key species due
to protection from
overuse.
Disturbance of iconic
Helicopters: used for species (e.g. whales,
human communities
crew supply, etc. porpoises, sea birds,
and fauna.
turtles).
grounds. values.
76
Deep water habitats – construction stage
Potential
Sedimentation
and turbidity. Loss
Dredging (offshore of, alteration and Possible uses for
or in coastal areas smothering of seabed. materials (sand, rocks)
for jetties, etc.): Impacts to seabed removed through the
including spoil disposal habitats, species, dredging process.
spawning areas and
Possible reduction
Chemical handling Possible water (e.g. dilution and
in commercial or
and use: including quality contamination microbial action) to
artisanal fisheries
pre-commissioning associated with help break down
chemicals permitted releases. and disperse oil and
impacts).
chemicals.
Reduction in
provisioning foods
and fisheries through Reduction in
contamination by oil local livelihoods,
and chemicals (actual recreation and iconic
and perceived). Both species through
large scale commercial oil and chemical
and artisanal fishing contamination (actual
and extent of the spill.
Possible for subsea
commercial or
Facility / equipment Potential artificial reef
artisanal fisheries
footprint: Construction effect (positive impacts
in the immediate
of subsea equipment, for various species, fish
area. In deep water,
pipelines, etc. and fisheries)
commercial fishing ,
may be relevant rather
than artisanal
77
IPIECA/OGP
Deep water habitats – operation stage
Potential
Possible increase in
Noise and light.
Physical presence Assimilation services
acting as habitat; Disturbance (visual,
Rigs and vessels: of ships leading to (e.g. dilution and
impacts would have auditory and physical)
Operation and general disturbance to fauna. microbial action) to
to accrue outside of of iconic species (e.g.
presence (rigs, FPSOs, Visual presence. help break down
any exclusion zones. whales, porpoises,
support vessels) Alien-invasive species and disperse oil and
Possible impacts sea birds, turtles).
associated with water chemicals.
on fisheries due to
invasive species.
Reduction in
commercial or
Reduced human access artisanal fisheries
Exclusion zones:
to an area. Protection (restricted access
of habitats and species to fishing grounds).
(e.g. reduced fishing Potential local increase
area
effort). in key species due
to protection from
overuse.
Noise disturbance to Disturbance of iconic
Helicopters: used for
human communities species (e.g. whales,
crew supply, etc.
and fauna. porpoises, seabirds).
Possible reduction
Noise. Physical in commercial or
presence of ships artisanal fisheries. In
leading to disturbance deep water commercial Possible disturbance
Shuttle tankers: for to fauna. Visual fishing for large of iconic species (e.g.
oil export presence. Alien- ranging species such whales, porpoises,
invasive species as tuna and sardines, sea birds).
associated with water and marlin, etc. may
and sediment ballast. be relevant rather than
artisanal
78
Potential
Possible for subsea
Potential artificial reef structures to increase
Footprint / physical effect (positive impacts commercial or
presence of for various species, fish artisanal fisheries
equipment: Rigs, and fisheries). Noise in the immediate
subsea equipment, from subsea valves area. In deep water,
pipelines, etc. leading to disturbance commercial fishing,
of fauna may be relevant rather
than artisanal.
Possible reduction
in commercial or
Pollution of marine artisanal fisheries. In
environment if not deep water commercial
Disposal of produced properly managed. fishing for large
waters Mortality and ranging species such
morbidity to flora and as tuna and sardines,
fauna. and marlin, etc. may
be relevant rather than
artisanal.
Entrainment of
organisms. Chemicals
Possible reduction
released in water Assimilation (and
Cooling waters: in artisanal or
environment. Heated Water (for intake). dilution) services of
Intake and outfall. commercial fisheries
waters. Mortality and receiving waters.
(actual and perceived).
morbidity of flora and
fauna.
79
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Possible reduction
in commercial or
Entrainment of
artisanal fisheries. In
Water (for intake). deep water commercial
Assimilation (and fishing for large
dilution) services of ranging species such
processes. Intake and Mortality and
receiving waters. as tuna and sardines,
and marlin, etc. may
fauna.
artisanal
Possible reduction
in commercial or
Chemical handling Assimilation services artisanal fisheries. In
and use: including Possible water (e.g. dilution and deep water commercial
fuel handling and quality contamination microbial action) to fishing for large
hazardous waste, associated with help break down ranging species such
biofouling and permitted releases. and disperse oil and as tuna and sardines,
corrosion protection chemicals. and marlin, etc. may
artisanal
Flaring and venting:
e.g. from production
platforms / FPSOs
Noise. Heat.
Reduction in
provisioning foods
and fisheries through Reduction in
contamination by oil local livelihoods,
and chemicals (actual recreation and iconic
and perceived). Both species through
large scale commercial oil and chemical
and artisanal fishing contamination (actual
and extent of the spill
80
Deep water habitats – decommissioning stage
Potential
Closure of
production and Disturbance (visual,
whales, porpoises,
sea birds).
activities
Removal of
structures at the sea auditory and physical)
Vessel presence. Noise. of iconic species (e.g.
whales, porpoises,
rigs using vessels
sea birds).
Equipment/facilities
left in situ or partial Potential change
Removal (or choice Possible change
not to remove)
removal. Positive (increase or decrease)
(increase or decrease)
artificial reef effects. in artisanal or
in iconic species (e.g.
bed Possible contamination commercial fisheries in
sharks, whales).
resulting from the immediate area.
corrosion.
Noise impacts to
offshore
in artisanal or of iconic species (e.g.
commercial fisheries. whales, porpoises,
sea birds).
Possible increase
once brought
potentially smothering submerge cleaned up
onshore of species on land.
81
IPIECA/OGP
Deep water habitats – decommissioning stage
Potential
Contamination of
water supplies and
if not disposed Assimilation services Visual and aesthetic
Disposal of waste impacts to fisheries (if
and managed of receiving soil and impact to locals and
materials (assume this it reaches main water
appropriately vegetation (disposal on visitors. Impacts on
is done onshore) bodies). Potentially
potentially causing land). iconic species.
smothering and
waste materials.
fauna.
82
Near shore / transition zone habitats
The near shore / transition zone as treated here includes a wide variety of habitats, ranging from coral
reefs to marine estuaries, mangroves, seagrass beds, beaches and rocky tidal zones.
Provisioning services: In near shore waters, artisanal and subsistence fishing are critical provisioning
services. In mangrove areas, timber and non-timber forest products can also be present. Ornamental and
pharmaceutical products are also often found in the near shore environment. Construction materials are
often used (e.g. sand, shingle, rocks and coral rubble)
Regulating services: Near shore habitats, such as mangroves and coral reefs, offer critical protection
from storms (wind and waves), flooding and erosion. Habitats in the transition zone, including estuaries
and mangroves, also offer important water filtration and waste assimilation services, as well as carbon
sequestration.
Cultural services: The near shore environment is one of the most valuable habitats for tourism and
recreation, offering marine and coastal tourism and local recreation services. Recreational activities
include swimming, snorkelling and diving. Iconic species include reef-associated fish, turtles, sharks,
dugong and coastal seabirds. A variety of marine mammals may be found near shore in certain periods
e.g. during calving. In addition, many coastal communities place cultural value on maintaining traditions
of hunting and fishing in the near shore environment. Credit: Shutterstock.com
Near shore areas are especially vulnerable to impacts from dredging, water pollution, and changes
in access to fishing, recreation, or cultural areas. As important habitats for juvenile fish and benthic
organisms as well as breeding areas for iconic species such as grouper and turtles, accidental events and other major changes in the environmental state of these habitats
can have far-reaching implications for the wider marine environment. A spill in the near shore environment will have different issues than further offshore due to dispersal
patterns of oil over time, etc. Similarly, chemicals and discharges may be less able to disperse than in a deep water environment.
83
IPIECA/OGP
Near shore / transition zone habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage
Potential
Offshore
Possible disturbance
Physical presence Assimilation services in artisanal or
of ships leading to (e.g. dilution and commercial fisheries
Vessels: Mobilization, whales, porpoises,
disturbance to fauna. microbial action) to and fish or shellfish for
operation and general sea birds). Possible
Visual presence. help break down consumption. Possible
presence impacts on marine
Alien-invasive species and disperse oil and impacts on fisheries
tourism and recreation
associated with water chemicals. due to disturbance and
(visual presence).
Temporary loss of
Temporary reduction in access to cultural,
local people's ability to livelihood and
fish (restricted access recreation features.
Exclusion zones: to fishing grounds Protection of habitats
Temporary exclusion of and/or landing sites); and species from
boats from a defined perceived impacts in misuse and overuse
area particular. Potential by people. Possible
effort).
increase in key species negative impacts on
due to protection from marine tourism (dive
overuse. and pleasure boats,
etc.)
Noise impacts to auditory and physical)
marine mammals of iconic species.
Seismic shooting: At / benthic fauna Turtles may be
a particularly
impacted species
Physical effects from physically by
streamers becoming entangled
in cables.
84
Potential
Noise impacts to of iconic species (e.g.
marine mammals whales, porpoises,
Seismic shooting: Use / benthic fauna sea birds, turtles),
of ocean bottom cables from acoustic blasts. sharks). Certain types
on the sea bed Physical disturbance of marine mammals
to seabed and benthic may be found
fauna nearshore in certain
periods e.g. during
calving.
Predictable, stable, Disturbance of hunting of area for local
mild weather patterns activities. communities, visitors
etc. and fauna.
and iconic species.
Onshore
Change (reduction
or increase) in
access to cultural or
Modification, Loss of carbon
sequestration
recreation features
fragmentation and Change (reduction
services from and settlements.
Access: Construction removal of habitats Use of local natural or increase) in local
Natural flood and clearing trees and Disturbance (visual,
and operation of and agricultural land. materials (e.g. people's ability to
erosion control of gather wild products vegetation. Reduction auditory and physical)
access roads and Terrain modification. aggregates) for roads, in flood and erosion of wild habitats,
coastal vegetation. (firewood from
airstrips. Noise, dust and etc. mangroves, fish, control and water iconic animals (e.g.
vibrations. Visual shellfish, etc.). purification by clearing turtles, puffins) and
disturbance. vegetation. landscapes. Possible
negative impacts
on coastal tourism
(beach access).
85
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Temporary loss of
Temporary reduction access to cultural,
Reduced human access in local people's livelihood and
to an area. Protection ability to gather wild recreation features.
Exclusion zones: products (firewood Protection of habitats
and maintenance of
Temporary exclusion of from mangroves, and species from
habitats and species fish, shellfish,
people from a defined misuse and overuse
(e.g. reduced logging, etc.).Potential increase
area. by people. Possible
land conversion and in key species due negative impacts on
hunting). to protection from marine tourism (dive
etc.)
cultural or recreation
from wastes and
wastewater, having Assimilation service of services from
Workforce and visual, physical, mangroves, estuaries clearing trees and
camps. introduction of alien of wild habitats,
species (typically iconic species and
Potential introduction provide clean water purification by clearing landscapes. Potential
negative impacts).
of alien-invasive vegetation. impacts on spiritual or
species.
area and other non-
use values.
Use of local recreation New local market but
Depletion of water and activities for workers Possible reduction in
Provisioning Use of fish, medicinal increased pressure on
local food resources. (e.g. swimming, iconic species (e.g.
workforce: Providing plants, water, use of water, products
Reduction in flora and bird- watching, turtles) from increased
food and water, etc. firewood, etc. from mangroves,
fauna. recreational fishing, hunting.
etc.
etc.)
86
Potential
Change (reduction
Loss of carbon
Seismic survey Loss of habitat and or increase) in local sequestration
people's ability to Potential impacts from
activities: Clearing agricultural land. services from
gather wild products clearing trees and alien-invasive species
lines, deployment and Terrain modification.
retrieval of geophones, Noise, dust and
(firewood from vegetation. Reduction and disturbance
mangroves, fish, (visual, auditory and
shot hole drilling, disturbance. Potential in flood and erosion
shellfish, etc.). physical) of iconic
and terrain access for introduction of alien- control and water
Potential (negative) purification by clearing species.
vibroseis trucks invasive species impacts from alien- vegetation.
invasive species.
87
IPIECA/OGP
Near shore / transition zone habitats – drilling – exploration and development stages
Potential
Offshore
Possible increase
in commercial or
Noise and light. artisanal fisheries Disturbance (visual,
Physical presence Assimilation services resulting from the rig auditory and physical)
Rigs and vessels: of ships leading to (e.g. dilution and acting as habitat; of iconic species (e.g.
whales, porpoises,
Mobilization, disturbance to fauna. microbial action) to impacts would have sea birds, turtles,
operation and general Visual presence. help break down to accrue outside of sharks). Possible
presence Alien-invasive species and disperse oil and any exclusion zones. impacts on marine
associated with water chemicals. Possible impacts tourism and recreation
and sediment ballast. on fisheries due to (visual presence).
invasive species.
Temporary loss of
people from a defined perceived impacts in misuse and overuse
effort).
etc.)
Turbidity, noise and Possible reduction whales, porpoises,
direct physical impacts in fish or shellfish
Seabed interaction: sea birds, turtles),
to seabed habitats, for consumption,
from the use of sharks). Certain types
species, spawning particularly coral
anchors, rigs, etc. of marine mammals
areas and fishing reef- and seagrass-
dependent species.
may be found
grounds.
nearshore in certain
periods e.g. during
calving
88
Potential
Possible reduction whales, porpoises,
Underwater noise. in fish or shellfish sea birds, turtles,
Drilling operations: Light. Seabed for consumption, sharks). Certain types
Subsurface intrusion disturbance impacting particularly coral of marine mammals
habitats and species. reef- and seagrass-
may be found
dependent species.
nearshore in certain
periods e.g. during
calving
Water quality and
seabed impacts
(e.g. smothering of
In the nearshore
habitats and species).
environment cuttings
If disposed onshore:
Assimilation services may be less easily Loss of habitat could
(Intrusion into water Loss of habitat could
(e.g. dilution and able to disperse result in loss of
Mud and cuttings: courses and aquifers. result in loss of
microbial action) to than in a deep associated cultural
Management and Water withdrawal. associated regulating
help break down water environment; services such as
disposal Surface drainage services such as
and disperse oil and Possible reduction in aesthetic and non-use
alteration for mud and assimilative services.
chemicals. provisioning foods or values.
waste storage. Pressure
water due to onshore
on waste facilities.
disposal.
Noise. Heat.
89
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Assimilation services Possible negative
Possible reduction
Possible water (e.g. dilution and impacts for marine
Chemical handling in fish or shellfish
quality contamination microbial action) to tourism and recreation
and use: including for consumption
associated with help break down (e.g. bathing,
permitted releases. and disperse oil and snorkelling and
impacts) diving).
chemicals.
Reduction in
provisioning foods
Accidental events: by oil and chemicals local livelihoods,
Risk of blow outs, oil (actual and perceived). recreation and iconic
spills, pollution, fires, A spill in the nearshore species through
explosions and ship environment will have oil and chemical
groundings. different issues than contamination (actual
smoke. chemicals.
further offshore due to and perceived).
dispersal patterns of oil
over time, etc.
Onshore
Change (reduction
or increase) in
Change (reduction sequestration
recreation features
fragmentation and services from and settlements.
Access: Construction removal of habitats Use of local natural clearing trees and Disturbance (visual,
Natural flood and people's ability to
and operation of and agricultural land. materials (e.g. vegetation. Reduction auditory and physical)
erosion control of gather wild products
airstrips. Noise, dust and etc. control and water iconic animals (e.g.
mangroves, shellfish,
vibrations. Visual purification by clearing turtles, puffins) and
etc.).
negative impacts
on coastal tourism
(beach access).
90
Potential
Temporary loss of
and maintenance of from mangroves,
Temporary exclusion of and species from
habitats and species fish, shellfish, etc.).
(e.g. reduced logging, Potential increase
area by people. Possible
etc.)
from wastes and
wastewater, having Assimilation service of services from
Workforce and visual, physical, vegetation, soils, etc. clearing trees and
negative impacts).
species.
area and other non-
use values.
Depletion of water and Possible reduction in
Provisioning Use of fish, medicinal activities for workers increased pressure on
local food resources. iconic species (e.g.
workforce: providing plants, water, (e.g. swimming, bird- use of water, products
Reduction in flora and turtles) from increased
food and water, etc. firewood, etc. watching, recreational from mangroves,
fauna. etc.
hunting.
fishing, etc.)
91
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Aquifer intrusion.
Use of water.
hydrogeology.
Loss of habitat
could result in Loss of habitat could
Mud and cuttings: loss of associated result in loss of
alteration for mud and associated cultural
Management and Use of water. provisioning services associated regulating
waste storage. Pressure services such as
disposal such as fisheries. services such as
Possible pollution of assimilative services.
water supply.
and surface waters.
Assimilation services Visual impacts to
Flaring: as required (greenhouse gases and Heat and light could
of receiving air, water, communities, tourism
during drilling other pollutants). Light. disturb wildlife.
soil and vegetation. and recreation.
Noise. Heat.
Possible negative
Chemical handling impacts for marine
and use: including tourism and recreation
drilling additives (e.g. swimming and
bathing).
Reduction in
oil spills, chemical products to absorb oil. species through
spills, pollution, fires, Use of sand in bags to oil and chemical
explosions, etc. block oil. contamination (actual
and perceived).
92
Near shore / transition zone habitats – construction stage
Potential
Offshore
Noise and light. Possible reduction Disturbance (visual,
Physical presence Assimilation services in artisanal or auditory and physical)
of ships leading to (e.g. dilution and commercial fisheries of iconic species (e.g.
Vessels: Mobilization, whales, porpoises,
disturbance to fauna. microbial action) to and fish or shellfish for sea birds, turtles,
operation and general
Visual presence. help break down consumption. Possible sharks). Possible
presence
Alien-invasive species and disperse oil and impacts on fisheries impacts on marine
associated with water chemicals. due to disturbance and tourism and recreation
and sediment ballast. alien-invasive species. (visual presence).
Temporary loss of
boats from a defined perceived impacts in misuse and overuse
effort).
etc.)
human communities
and fauna.
and iconic species.
Turbidity, noise and Loss of habitat could Loss of habitat could
result in a reduction Loss of habitat could
Seabed interaction: in fish or shellfish result in loss of
(trenching, piling, for consumption, associated regulating
anchoring, etc.) particularly coral services such as
reef- and seagrass- assimilative services.
grounds. dependent species. values.
93
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Possible reduction
in fish or shellfish
Sedimentation for consumption,
and turbidity. Loss particularly coral
reef- and seagrass-
Potential loss of of iconic species (e.g.
Dredging (offshore of, alteration and
dependent species.
erosion and shoreline turtles, sharks).
or in coastal areas smothering of seabed.
for jetties, etc.): Possible use of protection services Possible negative
Impacts to seabed
including spoil disposal habitats, species, materials (e.g. sand, provided coral reefs, if impacts for marine
rocks) removed removed in dredging. tourism (recreational
spawning areas and
fishing, snorkelling
fishing grounds. Noise. through the dredging
and diving).
process (e.g. for
construction).
Possible reduction Possible negative
Chemical handling Possible water (e.g. dilution and
in commercial or impacts for marine
and use: including quality contamination microbial action) to
artisanal fisheries tourism and recreation
pre-commissioning associated with help break down
(especially perceived (e.g. swimming and
chemicals permitted releases. and disperse oil and
impacts) bathing).
chemicals.
Reduction in
provisioning foods
by oil and chemicals local livelihoods,
(actual and perceived). recreation and iconic
A spill in the nearshore species through
environment will have oil and chemical
different issues than contamination (actual
over time, etc.
94
Potential
Possible for subsea
Facility / equipment Potential artificial reef commercial or
footprint: Construction effect (positive impacts artisanal fisheries.
of subsea equipment, for various species, fish Alternatively, possible
pipelines, etc. and fisheries) reduction in fish
or shellfish due to
disturbance.
Onshore
Loss of carbon
sequestration
Possible reduction in services from
Facility footprint: Modification, Use of local natural
local people's ability clearing trees and
Construction of fragmentation and materials (e.g. Natural flood, erosion Reduction in access to
to gather wild products vegetation. Reduction cultural or recreation
facility and pipelines; loss of habitats and aggregates) for and storm controls at
(firewood from in flood and erosion
temporary or agricultural land. foundations, concrete, site. features
mangroves, shellfish, control and water
permanent presence Terrain modification. etc.
etc.). purification by clearing
vegetation.
Change (reduction
or increase) in
Change (reduction sequestration
recreation features
airstrips. Noise, dust and etc. control and water iconic animals (e.g.
vibrations. Visual purification by clearing turtles, puffins) and
etc.).
negative impacts
on coastal tourism
(beach access).
95
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Temporary loss of
and maintenance of
Temporary exclusion of from mangroves, and species from
habitats and species fish, shellfish,
(e.g. reduced logging, etc.).Potential increase
etc.).
from wastes and
wastewater, having Assimilation service of
water supply. Potential services from and settlements.
Workforce and visual, physical, vegetation, soils, etc. clearing trees and
negative impacts).
species.
area and other non-
use values.
and iconic species.
96
Potential
Modification,
sequestration
removal of habitats. Possible reduction in services from
Site preparation: Modification to local people's ability clearing trees and Loss of access to
Vegetation clearance, drainage and to gather wild products vegetation. Reduction
cultural and recreation
excavation, hydrology regimes (firewood from in flood and erosion features
dewatering, trenching (groundwater, surface mangroves, shellfish, control and water
water, soil). Soil etc.). purification by clearing
and sedimentation.
Smothering of
ground level flora
and potentially
Soil disposal: from
site clearance
Contamination of
of alien-invasive
species.
fauna. etc.
hunting.
fishing, etc.)
and dust from
construction works
affecting flora and Water filtration
Construction work: (sand, gravel, rocks, Disturbance and loss of natural water supplies
fauna. Depletion of services to provide
Digging, building, etc. etc.). Timber from animals downstream (surface
natural resources for clean water.
forests, excavating
sand, etc.
97
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Reduction in
and perceived).
98
Near shore / transition zone habitats – operation stage
Potential
Offshore
Possible increase
in commercial or
Physical presence Assimilation services resulting from the rig
Possible disturbance of
Rigs and vessels: of ships leading to (e.g. dilution and acting as habitat;
iconic species. Possible
Operation and general disturbance to fauna. microbial action) to impacts would have
impacts on marine
presence (rigs, FPSOs, Visual presence. help break down to accrue outside of
tourism and recreation
support vessels) Alien-invasive species and disperse oil and any exclusion zones.
(visual presence).
associated with water chemicals. Possible impacts
invasive species.
Possible reduction in Loss of access to
local people's ability to cultural, livelihood and
Reduced human access Possible negative
Exclusion zones: to fishing grounds
to an area. Protection impacts on marine
Permanent exclusion of and/or landing sites); tourism (dive and
boats from a defined perceived impacts in pleasure boats, etc.).
area particular. Potential Protection of habitats
effort).
increase in key species and species from
due to protection from misuse and overuse by
overuse. people.
human communities
and fauna.
and iconic species.
99
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Noise. Physical
presence of ships
Possible impacts Possible disturbance of
on artisanal and iconic species. Possible
Shuttle tankers: for to fauna. Visual
commercial fisheries impacts on marine
oil export presence. Alien-
due to disturbance and tourism and recreation
invasive species
alien-invasive species. (visual presence)
Possible for subsea
presence of
commercial or
equipment: Rigs,
from subsea valves
or shellfish due to
of fauna
disturbance.
Pollution of marine Possible reduction in Possible negative
environment if not native fish or shellfish impacts for marine
Disposal of produced properly managed. for consumption. tourism and recreation
waters Mortality and Possible impacts (e.g. bathing,
morbidity to flora and on fisheries due to snorkelling and
fauna. disturbance diving).
Possible reduction in If it kills off corals, lose

Entrainment of associated coral reef
fish or shellfish for
organisms. Chemicals If it kills off corals, provisioning services.
consumption (actual
released in water Assimilation (and lose associated Possible negative
Cooling waters: and perceived). If
environment. Heated Water (for intake). dilution) services of coral reef regulating impacts for marine
Intake and outfall. corals are killed off, services (shoreline
waters. Mortality and receiving waters. tourism and recreation
lose associated coral protection, etc.)
morbidity of flora and (e.g. bathing,
reef provisioning snorkelling and
fauna.
services. diving).
100
Potential
Entrainment of
Desalination: organisms. Salts and Possible negative
Water (for intake). Possible reduction in impacts for marine
Assimilation (and fish or shellfish for tourism and recreation
dilution) services of consumption (actual (e.g. bathing,
processes. Intake and Mortality and snorkelling and
receiving waters. and perceived)
outfall. morbidity of flora and diving).
fauna.
Chemical handling Assimilation services Possible negative
Possible reduction
and use: including Possible water (e.g. dilution and impacts for marine
in commercial or
fuel handling and quality contamination microbial action) to tourism and recreation
artisanal fisheries
hazardous waste, associated with help break down (e.g. bathing,
(especially perceived snorkelling and
biofouling and permitted releases. and disperse oil and
impacts) diving).
Atmospheric emissions Loss of nearby
(greenhouse gases and agricultural crops
other pollutants). Light. (reduced yield and
Noise. Heat. tainting).
Reduction in
provisioning foods
by oil and chemicals local livelihoods,
(actual and perceived). recreation and iconic
A spill in the nearshore species through
environment will have oil and chemical
different issues than contamination (actual
over time, etc.
101
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Onshore
Loss of carbon
sequestration Reduction in access to
Possible reduction in services from
Use of local natural cultural or recreation
local people's ability clearing trees and
Facility footprint: Fragmentation of materials (e.g. Natural flood, erosion features. Disturb
to gather wild products vegetation. Reduction
Operation of facility, habitats. Noise. Light. aggregates) for and storm controls at tranquillity of area
(firewood from in flood and erosion
presence Atmospheric emissions. foundations, concrete, site. for local communities,
mangroves, shellfish, control and water
etc. visitors and iconic
etc.). purification by clearing species.
vegetation.
Change (reduction
or increase) in
Fragmentation access to cultural or
of habitats and Change (reduction recreation features
agricultural land. or increase) in local and settlements.
Use of local natural Disturbance (visual,
Access: Presence and Noise, dust and Natural flood and people's ability to
materials (e.g. auditory and physical)
operation of access vibrations. Light. erosion control of gather wild products
aggregates) for roads, of wild habitats, iconic
roads and airstrips. Visual disturbance. coastal vegetation. (firewood from
etc. animals (e.g. turtles)
Atmospheric emissions mangroves, shellfish,
(greenhouse gases and etc.). and landscapes.
Possible negative
air quality).
impacts on coastal
tourism (beach
access).
Possible reduction Loss of access to

Reduced human access in local people's cultural, livelihood and
Exclusion zones: Protection of habitats
and maintenance of products (firewood
Permanent exclusion of and species from
habitats and species from mangroves,
(e.g. reduced logging, shellfish, etc.). Potential
negative impacts
hunting). due to protection from on coastal tourism
overuse. (beach access).
102
Potential
from wastes and
sequestration watching areas)
wastewater, having Assimilation service of Possible pollution of services from and settlements.
Workforce and visual, physical, vegetation, soils, etc. water supply. Potential clearing trees and
Use of local natural Disturbance (visual,
ancillary camps: biological and disposing of liquid and changes to supply of vegetation. Reduction auditory and physical)
materials for building
Construction, chemical impacts. solid wastes. Water wild foods through in flood and erosion
camps. of wild habitats,
operation, closure Cutting down of trees. filtration service to introduction of alien control and water iconic species and
Potential introduction provide clean water species. purification by clearing landscapes. Potential
species.
area and other non-
use values.
and iconic species.
fauna. etc.
hunting.
fishing, etc.)
Depletion of water
Water supply and
renewable energy
supply
etc.
103
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Entrainment of
Water (for intake).
Desalination for water chemicals released in Use of marine/
Assimilation (and Possible reduction of
for consumption and water environment. brackish water supply
dilution) services of water supply.
processes. Intake and Mortality and to desalinate.
receiving waters.
fauna.
waters, groundwater Possible negative
and marine impacts for marine
Disposal of produced environment if not tourism and recreation
waters
water supplies and
properly managed. (e.g. bathing,
decline in fisheries. snorkelling and
Mortality and
morbidity to flora and diving).
fauna.
Entrainment of
organisms. Chemicals Possible negative
Water (for intake). Reduction in regulating impacts for marine
released in water Possible pollution of
Cooling waters: Use of water for Assimilation (and services associated tourism and recreation
environment. Heated water supplies and
Intake and outfall. cooling. dilution) services of with decline in habitat (e.g. bathing,
waters. Mortality and decline in fisheries. snorkelling and
receiving waters. extent and quality.
morbidity of flora and diving).
fauna.
Contamination of
water supplies and
impacts to fisheries (if
Disposal of waste Assimilation services it reaches main water
materials: General, of receiving soil and bodies) and possible
hazardous vegetation. damage to coral
habitats. Potentially
smothering and
waste materials.
fauna.
104
Potential
Contamination
Pollution of water
supplies and impacts
groundwater resources impact of camp and
to fisheries (if it
Wastewater if not disposed Assimilation services of waste to locals and
reaches main water
management and managed receiving waters. visitors. Threats to
bodies). Possible useful
appropriately, iconic species (e.g.
products in the waste
potentially poisoning turtles).
materials.
flora and fauna.
Impacts to local
amenity users.
Reduction in
and perceived).
105
IPIECA/OGP
Near shore / transition zone habitats – decommissioning stage
Potential
Offshore
Closure of
production and
of iconic species.
activities
Disturbance of
Removal of
species.
Equipment/facilities Possible change
left in situ or partial (increase or decrease)
Removal (or choice Change (increase or
not to remove)
removal. Positive in iconic species
decrease) in fish for
artificial reef effects. (e.g. sharks) and
consumption in the
bed Possible contamination marine recreation
immediate area.
resulting from activities (e.g. diving,
corrosion. recreational fishing)
Noise impacts to
Possible reduction in Disturbance (visual,
offshore
fish or shellfish for auditory and physical)
consumption. of iconic species.
Possible increase Disturbance (visual,
Breaking up of Noise and vibration. in commercial or auditory and physical)
offshore equipment Disposal of materials artisanal fisheries if of species on land.
once brought potentially smothering submerge cleaned up Disturbance of tourism
onshore and polluting habitats. structures back in sea and recreation
as artificial habitat. activities.
106
Potential
Contamination of
water supplies and
if not disposed
Disposal of waste Assimilation services it reaches main water
and managed
materials (assume this of receiving soil and bodies) and possible
appropriately
is done onshore) vegetation. damage to coral
potentially causing
smothering and
waste materials.
fauna.
Onshore
Change (reduction
or increase) in
Change (reduction sequestration recreation features
access roads and Terrain modification. aggregates) for roads, in flood and erosion of wild habitats, iconic
airstrips. Noise, dust and etc. control and water animals (e.g. turtles)
vibrations. Visual purification by clearing and landscapes.
etc.)
disturbance. vegetation. Possible negative
impacts on coastal
tourism (beach
access).
107
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
from wastes and
Workforce and wastewater, having Assimilation service of services from
ancillary camps: visual, physical, vegetation, soils, etc. clearing trees and
The use of any biological and disposing of liquid and vegetation. Reduction auditory and physical)
decommissioning Potential introduction provide clean water purification by clearing landscapes. Potential
negative impacts).
species.
area and other non-
use values.
Temporary loss of
and maintenance of from mangroves,
Temporary exclusion of and species from
habitats and species fish, shellfish, etc.).
(e.g. reduced logging, Potential increase
etc.)
Closure of all
108
Potential
Disturbance of
ground components
and gravel from
species.
Noise and vibration. (e.g. dilution and Disturbance of local
Breaking up of Disposal of materials microbial action) to communities and
equipment potentially smothering help break down visitors to amenity sites
and polluting habitats. and disperse oil and and to iconic species.
chemicals.
Contamination of
water supplies and
Assimilation services it reaches main water
of receiving soil and bodies) and possible
vegetation. damage to coral
smothering and
waste materials.
fauna.
Contamination
of soil, water,
groundwater resources Possible pollution of
impact of camp and
Wastewater if not disposed Assimilation services of water supply (and
waste to locals and
management and managed receiving waters. fisheries if it reaches
visitors. Threats to
appropriately, main water bodies).
iconic species.
flora and fauna.
109
IPIECA/OGP
Potential
Creation and
affected. affected.
species.
Increased stress on
resources resulting
and goods.
fauna.
110
Other habitats
Grassland habitats
A number of other habitat categories are not specifically covered in the checklist, but are briefly described here.
Grassland habitats, including prairies, steppe, savanna, and others, are defined as areas where natural grasses are the dominant form of plant life.
Provisioning services: Grassland areas provide plants and wild game for consumption, and are often utilized by local people for livestock grazing.
Regulating services: Grassland habitats can offer waste assimilation, carbon sequestration and water regulation services, depending upon the context.
Cultural services: Grasslands are important habitats for bird and grazing species; tropical savannas in particular are known for supporting iconic species and
endangered wildlife. They can also be important destinations for ecotourism.
The sensitivities of these habitats tend to be context specific, with some prone to droughts and fires and others to flooding. In general terms, grasslands are under
increasing threat globally from conversion to other land use. Oil and gas activity can lead to habitat fragmentation and transformation as a result of land-take for
infrastructure and roads.
Credit: Shutterstock.com
111
IPIECA/OGP
Mountain habitats
Mountain habitats are defined here as high altitude (montane, subalpine, and alpine) grasslands and
shrublands.
Provisioning services: Mountain habitats can provide a significant amount of freshwater resources. They
are also important for timber, wild game and nuts, berries and other wild foods.
Regulating services: Mountain habitats offer regulating services such as regulating water flows (e.g.
glaciers and snow melting), air quality regulation, and carbon sequestration.
Cultural services: Mountains are important recreational sites, with hiking, snow sports, and wildlife watching
valued as important cultural activities in mountain areas. Many mountains have spiritual significance for local
people, and some have global significance as culturally important places. Mountain habitat supports a wide
range of iconic species, such as elk, bear, mountain lions, eagles and other rare and endangered species.
As remote, often biologically distinct areas, alpine/mountain habitats often support a high level of endemic
species and have importance for unique indigenous communities. They are often particularly fragile and
highly susceptible to erosion, landslides and torrents. Flora, fauna and soil recover slowly from disturbances.
Key oil and gas impacts include habitat fragmentation, threats to water quality from drilling and operations,
and loss of vegetation leading to erosion and instability.
Credit: left – Shutterstock.com; above – Photos.com
112
Cultivated habitats
Cultivated habitats include any areas that have been converted to support human agricultural uses. There is
a wide variety of cultivated land, ranging from vast monocultures to small-scale mixed cropping, and long-
and short-term agricultural use. In some places, cultivated land provides important habitat for insect and bird
species.
Provisioning services: Cultivated land provides food in the form of grains, fruits and vegetables, plant fibres
for clothing and other uses, and woody products for a variety of uses. In addition, biofuel crops are grown to
provide energy.
Regulating services: Some types of agriculture provide local climate and air quality regulation services (most
likely from tree species). Certain crops may have a net carbon sequestration role when compared to fossil fuel
use. When poorly managed, cultivated crops can lead to severe erosion problems.
Cultural services: Agriculture is culturally valued

as a source of livelihood and independence. Some
areas may have served as cultivated land for
generations, and hence have cultural significance to
the communities and individuals who rely upon them.
Oil and gas activities threaten agriculture through

conversion of land for roads and infrastructure,
air and water pollution caused by drilling and
operational activities, and occasionally long-term
impacts from pipelines and chemical and waste
disposal over the long term. Because agriculture is
closely linked to people’s livelihoods and well being,
impacts to cultivated land or production can lead to
strong reactions from local communities.
Credit: left – Shutterstock.com; above – Istockphoto.com
113

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IPIECA

Alien invasive Alien invasive

Biodiversity and ecosystem services Biodiversity and ecosystem services

Forest habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage

Forest habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage

Forest habitats – drilling – exploratory and development stages

Forest habitats – drilling – exploratory and development stages

Forest habitats – construction stage

Forest habitats – construction stage

Forest habitats – construction stage

Forest habitats – operation stage

Forest habitats – operation stage

Forest habitats – operation stage

Forest habitats – operation stage

Forest habitats – decommissioning stage

Forest habitats – decommissioning stage

Forest habitats – decommissioning stage

Wetland, river and lake habitats

Wetland, river and lake habitats – construction stage

Wetland, river and lake habitats – construction stage

Wetland, river and lake habitats – operation stage

Wetland, river and lake habitats – operation stage

Wetland, river and lake habitats – operation stage

Wetland, river and lake habitats – decommissioning stage

Wetland, river and lake habitats – decommissioning stage

Polar habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage

Polar habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage

Polar habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage

Polar habitats – seismic surveying – exploration and appraisal stage

Polar habitats – drilling – exploratory and development stages

Polar habitats – drilling – exploratory and development stages

Polar habitats – drilling – exploratory and development stages

Polar habitats – drilling – exploratory and development stages

Polar habitats – drilling – exploratory and development stages

Polar habitats – construction stage

Polar habitats – construction stage

Polar habitats – construction stage

Polar habitats – construction stage

Polar habitats – construction stage

Polar habitats – operation stage

Polar habitats – operation stage

Polar habitats – operation stage

Polar habitats – operation stage

Polar habitats – operation stage

Polar habitats – operation stage

Polar habitats – decommissioning stage

Polar habitats – decommissioning stage

Polar habitats – decommissioning stage

Polar habitats – decommissioning stage

Polar habitats – decommissioning stage

Desert and arid habitats

Desert and arid habitats – drilling – exploration and development stage

Desert and arid habitats – drilling – exploration and development stage

Desert and arid habitats – drilling – exploration and development stage

Desert and arid habitats – construction stage

Desert and arid habitats – construction stage

Desert and arid habitats – construction stage

Desert and arid habitats – operation stage