--> Abstract: Seismic Operations in Environmentally Sensitive Areas IAGC Initiatives, by D. G. Womack; #90995 (1993).
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ABSTRACT: Seismic Operations in Environmentally Sensitive Areas IAGC Initiatives

As environmental concerns continue to expand on a global basis, the petroleum industry can expect a continuing stream of new legislation, regulations, and permitting conditions addressing this critical subject. Exploration programs involving seismic surveys will likely be a focal point for these governmental actions and public initiatives.

Because of the diversity of circumstances faced by geophysical field crews and the potential adverse impact from such activities, our industry must develop heightened sensitivity and operating practices that demonstrate that such work can be done in an environmentally compatible manner. The International Association of Geophysical Contractors (IAGC) has taken a proactive approach to this issue by producing a comprehensive set of recommended worldwide operating guidelines to assist its member companies and others in planning and carrying out geophysical data acquisition activities in an environmentally responsible manner.

These IAGC guidelines are designed to address key environmental issues present in six specific operating environments: arctic areas, coastal areas (including wetlands and marshes), level and semilevel forested areas, and marine areas. Careful planning, proper communication with both the public and government agencies, and knowledge of specific local issues can help to bring about a cooperative and positive approach to future petroleum exploration and development in environmentally sensitive areas.

Furthermore, recognition, acceptance, and adoption of these IAGC guidelines by both the petroleum industry and regulatory agencies can help promote access to explore--without unreasonable or unnecessary restrictions--in environmentally sensitive areas. This can help reduce oil company client and geophysical contractor liability and, at the same time, provide a much needed boost to our industry's public image.

Development of these guidelines has been a truly international effort incorporating input from all regions of the world as to content, format, and localized semantics. In trying to achieve worldwide functionality, IAGC has attempted to establish a balance between environmental diligence, reasonable practices, and economic considerations.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90995©1993 AAPG Eastern Section Meeting, Williamsburg, Virginia, September 19-21, 1993.