Executive Summary Initial Environmental Examination Marine Seismic Studies A-7 Myanmar

Transcription

1 Executive Summary Initial Environmental Examination Marine Seismic Studies A-7 Myanmar

2 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR INTRODUCTION Woodside Energy (Myanmar) Pte Ltd (Woodside) intends to acquire a two dimensional (2D) marine seismic survey and a three dimensional (3D) marine seismic survey, as well as gravity and magnetic data and seabed samples (the Project), in Block A-7 (A-7), which is located offshore Myanmar in the Rakhine Basin in the Bay of Bengal (Figure 0-1). Woodside is the Operator of A-7, with equity interests of 45%, in a joint venture with BG Exploration & Production (Myanmar) Pte Ltd (BGEPM) and Myanmar Petroleum Exploration & Production Co. Ltd (MPEP), who hold non-operating interests of 45% and 10% respectively. The proposed Project activities are planned to be undertaken between November 2015 and April 2016, due to favourable weather and sea conditions for offshore surveys during the North-east Monsoon. In accordance with the draft Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Procedure of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, this Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) is a report comprising a systematic assessment of the Project. Woodside prepared this IEE for these activities for submission to the Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE) and the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Forestry (MOECAF). Woodside undertook a screening assessment whereby a Project Proposal was submitted to MOECAF in February 2015, and MOECAF then confirmed that the level of assessment for the proposed survey activities would be set at an IEE. Subsequently, a series of stakeholder engagements were conducted at various levels. The purpose of the proposed surveys is to investigate the possible presence of hydrocarbons within A-7. An initial geophysical investigation (Stage 1) is proposed to include 2D and 3D marine seismic acquisition, gravity and magnetic data acquisition, and seabed sampling. Additional seismic surveying (Stage 2) may be undertaken if the results of Stage 1 deliver a business case to pursue additional seismic data acquisition. The activities would most likely include additional 3D marine seismic acquisition. The scope and timing of these activities relies on the evaluation of the Stage 1 results. The scope of this IEE report includes both the Stage 1 and Stage 2 activities. Possible future activities such as exploratory drilling are not included in this IEE. Should the Stage 2 activities introduce any new significant environmental impact risk or significant increase in an existing environmental impact/risk not provided for in this document, Woodside will update and resubmit the document for re-assessment. Page ES-1

3 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Figure 0-1: Location of A-7, Offshore Myanmar Page ES-2

4 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR PROJECT DESCRIPTION The Project will be undertaken within A-7, which is located immediately off the coast of the Ayeyarwady Region, adjacent to the townships of Labutta and Ngapudaw in the Village-tract of SinMa to the south of Pathein Township. Seismic acquisition and associated activities within A-7 will take place from approximately 75 kilometres to approximately 15 kilometres off the west coast of the Ayeyarwady Region and about 20 kilometres to the north-west of Thameehla Kyun (Diamond Island). The surveys will comprise an acquisition area of approximately 7,000 square kilometres, in water depths ranging from approximately 2,000 metres to 50 metres. The Project will comprise 2D marine seismic and 3D marine seismic data acquisition as well as gravity and magnetic data acquisition and seabed sampling, and is expected to be conducted as multiple activities across both A-7 and AD-5 (Figure 0-1). Survey activities in AD-5 are subject to a separate IEE process and are not included in this IEE. Due to the length of the towed streamers, the seismic vessels will require an additional turnaround (or buffer) zone, approximately eight (8) kilometres wide, outside of the blocks as shown in Figure 0-2, which depicts the extent of the Project operational area. The turnaround area allows for line run-outs, line turns and line run-ins and minimises the likelihood of streamer entanglement however, no acquisition of data will be conducted in the buffer zone. Figure 0-2: The Project Operational Area including Buffer Zone Page ES-3

5 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Project Schedule The activities are expected to commence in November 2015 for the 3D and 2D marine seismic survey (MSS) with an estimated total of 35 days and 180 days of acquisition across A-7 and AD-5. The 3D MSS in AD-5 and A-7 will be followed by 2-D in A-7. The seabed sampling is likely to commence in March 2016 after the 3D MSS has been completed. Gravity and magnetic data will be acquired concurrently with seismic acquisition, utilizing the same survey vessels. Marine Seismic Surveys Marine seismic surveys enable the mapping of subsurface geological formations and the identification of potential hydrocarbon deposits. The seismic surveys involve directing acoustic (sound) energy into the geology (rocks) under the seabed and measuring their reflection using specialised equipment towed by a purpose-built seismic vessel. The seismic vessel tows long cables called streamers behind it at a set depth below the water surface. Sound receiving devices called hydrophones are attached to the streamers at specific intervals to measure the reflected sound. The sound source and streamers are usually towed at a depth of 5 20 metres below the water surface, and are towed at a speed of approximately five (5) knots (8 9 kilometres per hour) thus the vessel is constantly moving. The sound source generates intermittent acoustic pulses that are directed downwards to the seabed. These sound waves are reflected back upwards from the various layers of sediment and rock below the seabed, and are received by the hydrophones contained in the streamers being towed behind the survey vessel. Hydrophones convert the reflected pressure signals into electrical energy that is digitised and transmitted along the streamer to the recording system on board the seismic vessel. A computerised analysis of these reflected sound waves generates images of the geology below the seabed, which enables an accurate identification of the location, extent and depth of possible hydrocarbon reserves below the seabed. Figure 0-3: Diagrammatic Overview of Seismic Survey Operations Reflected sound waves are received by hydrophones contained in the streamers Acoustic pulses are generated by the sound source Acoustic pulses reflect off the various rock layers below the seabed Source: Base image sourced from and reproduced courtesy of IPIECA Proposed 2D and 3D MSS The proposed 2D and 3D MSS are transient activities that do not require the construction of any facilities, structures or permanent features. Page ES-4

6 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR The 2D MSS will use one streamer, approximately 10,000 to 12,000 metres in length, towed at 10 metres below the sea surface behind the seismic vessel. The seismic source array will be located approximately seven (7) metres below the surface with single array configuration and a typical volume of 4,000 cubic inches. Typical source outputs (sound pressure levels SPL) during the MSS will be db re 1 μpa@ 1m (when measured relative to a reference pressure of one micropascal). In the 3D MSS, 10 to 12 streamers are towed behind the seismic vessel, together with dual acoustic sources. The streamers, each approximately 7,000 metres long, will be towed at 10 metres below the sea surface and 100 metres apart at their widest point at the end of the streamers. The 3D MSS is expected to use a dual acoustic array configuration with a typical volume of 4,000 cubic inches. A 3D survey gives a detailed 3D image of the subsurface geology. To complete each survey, the vessel with its towed streamer (2D) or streamers (3D) will complete a series of parallel survey lines. The survey lines are typically four (4) kilometres apart in the case of the 2D MSS and typically 500 metres apart for the 3D MSS. Plate 0-1: 3D Survey Vessel and Towed Array Page ES-5

7 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Figure 0-4: Generic 3D MSS Equipment Configuration Gravity and Magnetic Data Acquisition Gravity and magnetic data is utilised in the oil and gas industry to assess the depth and nature of the seabed sediments. Acquisition equipment measures changes in density and magnetic intensity, and this allows maps to be created showing the lateral distribution of the various sediments. Gravity and magnetic data acquisition is proposed to be conducted as part of the 2D and 3D MSS in A-7, with equipment and personnel working in conjunction with seismic operations to acquire the data simultaneously. Seabed Sampling In addition to the proposed seismic acquisition, Woodside will also undertake seabed sampling to characterise seabed sediments. A separate vessel fitted with sampling equipment will be utilised to undertake the sampling via drop coring, gravity coring, piston coring or other industry standard methods. These cores will be analysed to provide additional information on the seabed. The seabed sampling survey will utilise a single dedicated vessel. Once retrieved, the cores will be removed from the barrel and a preliminary analysis will take place on board the vessel, the cores will then be retained for more detailed laboratory analysis. The seabed sampling will take place at locations to be determined after the 3D seismic data has been analysed. All samples will be retained on the vessel and not discharged back to the ocean. Page ES-6

8 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Plate 0-2: Core Sampler equipment being deployed from the vessel Plate 0-3: Sample of the seabed sediments after recovery of the core sampler equipment to the vessel Project Vessels For the A-7 2D and 3D MSS, the expected survey fleet will comprise of approximately six (6) to eight (8) vessels in total, including: Seismic vessel: a purpose-built vessel with accommodation for the survey crew and operating equipment. The vessel will tow the streamers and acoustic source. Separate seismic vessels will be utilised for the 2D and 3D MSS. Support vessel: the support vessel provides assistance to the seismic vessel during each of the survey activities. This includes maintaining a safe work area around the towed equipment (the exclusion zone), providing supplies when required for the seismic vessel, at sea refuelling, and assisting in emergency situations. Chase vessels: one or more chase boats will be used to clear acquisition lines of any debris, liaise with fishermen and ward off other vessels entering the safety zone around the seismic vessel to maintain safe operating distances. A dedicated vessel is likely to be utilised for the seabed sampling. The vessels will operate 24 hours per day, seven days a week throughout the survey periods. Project Logistics The seismic vessels for the 2D and 3D MSS are expected to remain offshore throughout both surveys. Bunkering and resupply of the seismic vessels will be conducted at sea by their respective support vessels. The survey contractor(s) will utilise an existing onshore supply base a specific port is yet to be determined; however, it is likely to be located outside of Myanmar. Page ES-7

9 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Crew changes for the seismic vessels utilised for the 2D and 3D MSS will be conducted offshore within the operational area or in the waters surrounding A-7 and AD-5, using the support vessels. In some instances, helicopters may be used to transfer personnel and equipment to and from the seismic vessels. Any helicopter flights during the 2D and 3D MSS will be operated from an airport in Myanmar, which has not been identified at this stage. Vessel Discharges and Waste Management Wastewater generated by the seismic and support / chase vessels includes domestic and sanitary wastewater, and deck and bilge water, all of which will be treated and monitored aboard before discharge into the surrounding marine environment. These wastewater releases will strictly comply with MARPOL Convention regulations and international best practice standards. A variety of non-hazardous solid wastes will be generated during the survey activities, such as glass, paper, plastic and wood. No solid wastes will be disposed of intentionally into the marine environment, and all solid wastes will be collected and shipped to shore for appropriate treatment, recycling or disposal. Vessels will be operated in compliance with MARPOL regulations whereby the discharge of comminuted and disinfected sewage, and food waste ground to particle size less than 25 millimetres is permitted at distances of greater than three (3) nautical miles from the nearest land. Hazardous wastes such as lubricants, filters, chemical containers and used equipment, will be stored and transferred onshore for appropriate treatment and disposal. BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS Physical Environment Weather and oceanographic conditions in the Bay of Bengal are dominated by the North-east Monsoon in the months from November through to April, and the South-west Monsoon from April through to September, the former being the period of calmest seas. The A-7 operational area is located within the Rakhine Basin, on the eastern fringe of the Bay of Bengal and offshore from the western coast of Ayeyarwady Province, Myanmar. Adjacent offshore features to the basin include the Bay of Bengal and the associated Bengal Fan deposits to the west, the Ayeyarwady Delta and associated Moattama Offshore Basin to the south, and the Andaman-Nicobar Trench and associated island arc to the south. The Rakhine Basin is approximately 850 kilometres in length and 200 kilometres in width. Water depths range from approximately 200 metres to 2,450 metres. The ecology of the north-eastern Bay of Bengal, within which the operational area is located, is dominated by the outflow of the three major rivers: the Ayeyarwady, Sittaung and Thanlwin. Through the rainy season of the South-west Monsoon these rivers release fresh water into the coastal region surrounding their extensive river delta systems. With the onset of the drier months from September through to November, the salinity of the oceanic waters rises, which combined with an upwelling event off the coastal shelf, attracts an abundance of fish species to the coastal areas. Accordingly, it is the months of the North-east Monsoon, primarily from November through to March that tend to be the most productive for local fishermen. Biological Environment The nearshore areas of the Ayeyarwady coastline show significant biodiversity with mangrove, seagrass and coral reef ecosystems distributed throughout the region. The mangrove communities are located along the coastline, outside the operational area. Seagrass meadows are generally located in water depths up to 15 metres and will therefore not be overlapped by any survey activities, which will be restricted to water Page ES-8

10 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR depths greater than 50 metres. Coral reefs are dependent on light penetration and are generally limited to shallow water there are no shoals inside the operational area that are likely to support coral communities. There are known turtle rookeries on the beaches in the southern part of the operational area, although little is known of the migration routes and distribution of turtles in offshore waters. Of the seven (7) species of marine turtles known internationally, five (5) species are recorded as regularly breeding on Myanmar s beaches. Diamond Island, a marine reserve located approximately 20 kilometres to the south-east of the south-eastern corner of the operational area, is a major nesting site of green turtles in Myanmar and is protected as a year-round nesting location for this species. A total of 104 inshore fish species probably occur in the operational area. These include reef fishes, commercially important fishes and pelagic species that will also use deeper waters of the Bay of Bengal. There are three (3) fish species that are listed as Endangered under on the World Conservation Union (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species that may occur in the operational area and surrounding waters. The proposed survey activities are not expected to have any impact on the presence or abundance of these species. There are 20 species of ocean seabirds currently identified as occurring in Myanmar waters. An additional 61 species of birds live in the coastal zone, although there is limited data on their use of the marine environment. The Project is not expected to have any impact on marine or coastal birdlife. There are two broad groups of marine mammals present in Myanmar waters cetaceans (whales and dolphins) and sirenians (dugongs and manatees). It is highly unlikely that any dugongs will be present in the operational area, given that their preferred habitat is seagrass meadows in shallow waters and the survey activities will take place in waters greater than 50 metres deep. There is limited detailed research into the presence and activities of cetaceans in the eastern Bay of Bengal, and data has been compiled based on information that is available from primary literature and historical records. There is evidence of the possible presence of approximately 32 species of cetaceans in Myanmar waters. These species are comprised of seven (7) baleen whales, five (5) beaked whales, three (3) large delphinds, 14 smaller delphinds and three (3) species of sperm whale. Cetacean range data is considered to be approximate due to limited information sources. Socio-economic Environment Fisheries Myanmar's marine fishing industry consists of three distinct fishing zones namely, onshore, inshore and offshore. The inshore area starts from the Low Water Mark to 10 nautical miles from shore in the Ayeyarwady Region. For offshore fisheries management, the Department of Fisheries has divided the Myanmar coastline into 140 fishing grounds of 30 by 30 nautical mile blocks by using latitude and longitude lines and has designated four fishing areas Rakhine, Ayeyarwady, Mon and Tanintharyi. The offshore zone is the area from the 15 metre isobath out to the limit of Myanmar s Economic Exclusion Zone (EEZ). The inshore fishing zone is located close to the coast, in waters less than 40 metres deep. The inshore fishery is small scale and mostly artisanal in nature, with limited technology and equipment to process fisheries resources information. In , there were approximately 2,050 offshore vessels and 27,751 inshore vessels registered with the Department of Fisheries across Myanmar, half of which were nonmotorised boats, and 1,600 were trawlers. In the Ayeyarwady Region, there were 456 offshore vessels and 1,107 inshore vessels registered with the Department of Fisheries. Approximately 70% of those may be expected to operate in the operational area in and around Block A-7. Page ES-9

11 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR The operational area is located in the offshore fishery zone and encompasses fishing blocks B8, B9, B10, B13, B14 and parts of B15 (B15 is mostly inshore). Blocks B10 and B20 are within A-7 but are located within the inshore fisheries jurisdiction and will not be impacted by the survey activities. The operational area also includes known offshore tuna fishing grounds, with the western part of A-7 overlapping one of these areas. Artisanal fishermen use active fishing techniques during the dry season. When weather conditions are good enough to allow fishing far away from the coast, they can venture out to the offshore area, targeting grouper, sea bass and mackerel, and their fishing trips can last more than one week. During the rainy season, the offshore area is less accessible because it is more dangerous, limiting the fishing grounds to the inshore fishery zone. Fishermen tend to use more passive fishing gear during the rainy season, such as stow nets, drift nets and gill nets, targeting shrimps, mud crabs or fishes such as mullet or giant sea bass. The most important and intensive fishing activity in the Ayeyarwady Region is from October through to early April each year. During the South-west monsoon season of June through to August the region has almost no fishing activity. All community fishing grounds are located within 20 kilometres of land, although the majority tend to be located within 1 5 kilometres from the shoreline therefore, the majority of fishery activities are considered to be nearshore, rather than offshore. In most cases, the fishing grounds claimed by each Village-tract are located within 5 20 kilometres of their main coastal villages (Figure 0-3). Thus distance travelled has a significant influence on local fishing practices. Given that the survey vessels will operate in water depths deeper than 50 metres, it is possible that fishing vessels targeting large pelagic fish species such as tuna and swordfish may be encountered. The Woodside survey of Village-tracts identified a number of fishing grounds along the coastline within A-7 (Figure 0-3). The 2D and 3D MSS will take place to a minimum water depth of 50 m (the 50 m isobath is shown in Figure 0-3). The 2D MSS will require a turnaround zone of approximately 8 kilometres to the east of the eastern edge of the survey area. Of the fishing grounds that have been identified three (3) are located totally or partially inside the survey area. Survey vessels will not be operating in inshore waters where significantly higher numbers of artisanal fishermen operate. Interactions with artisanal fishermen operating in the inshore fishery during the 2D and 3D MSS and associated activities is therefore expected to be limited to those fishermen fishing grounds further from the coast. Marine Traffic Marine traffic off the coast of the Ayeyarwady Region is limited to regional traffic. A moderately busy shipping lane connects Chittagong port in Bangladesh to the Malacca Straits in Malaysia. A-7 is located in close proximity to this shipping lane and encounters with vessels during the proposed 2D and 3D MSS and associated activities in the operational area can be expected. The A-7 area is also utilised by coastal trading vessels travelling from Yangon and Kyaukpyu. Submarine Cables Currently, Myanmar has one international telecommunications connection via the SEA-ME-WE 3 cable, which makes landfall at Pyapon, well away from the operational area for the Project. There is, however, a new undersea cable service in preparation called the SEA-ME-WE 5 connection that will make landfall at Ngwe Saung. Accurate mapping for the cable route and this landfall are not available but it appears that it will pass through A-6, and it is likely that it may intersect with A-7. The available schematics indicate that it tracks roughly south south-west from Ngwe Saung. It is expected that the cable will be commissioned in Page ES-10

12 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Figure 5: Proximity of the Operational Area to Local Inshore Fishing Grounds Page ES-11

13 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION Methodology The environmental and social risk management methodology used in this IEE is based on Woodside s Risk Management Operating Standard. These standards are consistent with the AS/ISO Risk Management Principles. The risk management methodology provides a framework to demonstrate that the identified risks and impacts are reduced to as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP), and the acceptability of risks and impacts. Identification of Impacts Based on the project description, the potential impacts resulting from the proposed 2D and 3D MSS and associated activities in the A-7 operational area can be categorised as. 1. Potential impacts related to the activities of the vessels: Physical presence: o interference with shipping activities; and/or with commercial and artisanal fisheries; o collision with marine mammals and other protected marine species (such as turtles and whale sharks); o loss of towed seismic equipment resulting in physical damage to seabed substrates and habitats; and o introduction of invasive marine species. Atmospheric emissions: emissions primarily from fuel combustion on the seismic and support/chase vessels. Discharge to sea and solid wastes: sewage, grey water and food waste discharge, impact to the marine environment from incorrect handling and disposal of chemicals, solid and hazardous wastes. Generation of light: generation of artificial light aboard the vessels is necessary for safety reasons; however it can attract marine fauna close to the vessels. Accidental releases: spills of marine fuel oil (MFO) during at sea bunkering (refuelling), or resulting from vessel collisions, accidental releases of hazardous materials. 2. Potential impacts related to the 2D and 3D seismic acquisition activities: Underwater noise generated by the seismic sources (discharge of airguns throughout the operational area). 3. Impacts related to seabed sampling activities: Physical disturbance/damage to seabed sediments and benthic communities resulting from gravity coring. Page ES-12

14 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Summary of Environmental/Social Risk Assessment An environmental and social risk assessment of the 2D and 3D MSS and associated activities has been undertaken to understand and manage the environmental and social risks associated with the activities to a level that minimises impacts on the environment and meets the objectives of the proposed surveys. The risk assessment indicates that the potential impacts arising from the Project in A-7 can be categorised as having Low residual risk levels. No residual risks were assessed as Medium, High or Severe. Table 0-1 below presents a summary of the assessed level of residual (post-mitigation) environmental and social risk associated with the Project. Mitigation Measures Table 0-2 summarises the key mitigation strategies and measures that Woodside and the geophysical contractor(s) will implement during the Project to ensure that impacts are either eliminated or reduced to levels that are ALARP and environmentally and socially acceptable. Page ES-13

15 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR BLOCK A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Table 0-1: Summary of Environmental/Social Risk Assessment for the Project, A-7, Offshore Myanmar Residual Risk Rating Aspect Source of Risk Key Potential Environmental / Social Impacts Consequenc e Likelihood Residual Risk Planned (Routine) Activities Physical presence of project vessels Proximity of project vessels causing interference with or displacement of other vessels (commercial shipping, fishing) Short-term, isolated interference with/exclusion of commercial shipping and fishing vessels F 1 Low Routine noise emissions Generation of noise from project vessels and mechanical equipment during normal operations (excluding seismic survey equipment) Generation of noise from seismic survey equipment Temporary and minor behavioural and physiological disturbance (e.g. avoidance or attraction) to marine fauna Temporary and minor behavioural and physiological disturbance (e.g. avoidance of local area) to fauna Temporary and minor changes to the location of target species for fishing activities F 2 Low E 1 Low Routine atmospheric emissions Internal combustion engines on survey vessel, supply vessel(s) and machinery engines Reduced local air quality from atmospheric emissions Minor contribution to greenhouse gas emissions F 1 Low Routine discharges Discharge of bilge water, grey water, sewage and putrescible wastes from the survey and support vessels to the marine environment Localised and temporary reduction in water quality due to nutrient enrichment Localised and temporary adverse effect to marine biota in offshore waters F 0 Low Page ES-14

16 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR BLOCK A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Residual Risk Rating Aspect Source of Risk Key Potential Environmental / Social Impacts Consequenc e Likelihood Residual Risk Routine light generation Light spill from seismic, support and chase vessel Temporary and minor behavioural effect to fauna attracted to light (seabirds, turtles) F 0 Low Seabed sampling Gravity coring of seabed sediments Localised physical disturbance and impact to substrates and benthic communities F 0 Low Potential physical damage to submarine cables Unplanned Activities (Accidents/ Incidents) Hydrocarbon release to the marine environment during at sea refuelling, or from vessel collision Localised and minor temporary disruption to fauna such as oiling of marine mammals, reptiles and seabirds Unplanned discharges to the marine environment Accidental discharge of hydrocarbons/chemicals from seismic or support vessel deck activities and equipment (e.g. cranes and winches) Localised and temporary contamination of water which may lead to toxic effects on marine biota in offshore waters F 2 Low Accidental loss of solid hazardous or nonhazardous wastes to the marine environment Pollution and contamination of the environment and secondary impacts on marine fauna (e.g. ingestion or entanglement) F 1 Low Unplanned events associated with physical presence of project vessels Accidental collision between project vessels and migratory marine fauna Loss of seismic streamers and/or acoustic source Potential injury or fatality of an individual or a number of marine fauna with no threat to overall population viability Localised short-term damage of substrates and benthic communities in the immediate location of the dropped seismic streamers and/or acoustic source E 1 Low F 1 Low Page ES-15

17 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR BLOCK A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Residual Risk Rating Aspect Source of Risk Key Potential Environmental / Social Impacts Consequenc e Likelihood Residual Risk Introduction of invasive marine species associated with ballast water transfer Disturbance, damage, or alteration of the receiving natural ecosystem E 0 Low Transportation of invasive marine species via vessel hull, internal niches or in-water equipment Disturbance, damage, or alteration of the receiving natural ecosystem E 0 Low Page ES-16

18 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR BLOCK A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Table 0-2: Summary of Mitigation Measures for the Project, A-7, Offshore Myanmar Aspect Planned (Routine) Activities Management Objectives/ Commitments Mitigation Strategies / Measures Physical presence of project vessels Minimise potential disruption to commercial and artisanal fishing and to local and international shipping activities Timely advice to local fishermen concerning the survey activities Notifications to all known relevant fishery stakeholders including the Department of Fisheries and the various fishing associations, Fisheries Liaison Officer to participate in the survey and interact with local fishermen when necessary (Burmese Speaker); Issuance of Notice to Mariners; Maintenance of a Safety Zone around project vessel and all towed equipment; Establishment of a Communications Protocol Use of chase vessel(s) to liaise with approaching vessels and maintain the Safety Zone Crew to include at least one bilingual English/Burmese speaking member Implementation of a Community Grievance Mechanism to deal with any claims / complaints Adherence to the international convention concerning the interaction of vessels at sea (COLREGS) Maximizing efficiency of seismic surveys to reduce operation times, where possible; Standard maritime safety procedures will be followed including the appropriate navigational lighting and maintenance of radio contact with nearby vessel Routine noise emissions from acoustic source Minimise disruption to marine fauna, particularly mammals, fishes and turtles Appropriate maintenance of vessels and associated equipment. Maximizing efficiency of seismic surveys to reduce operation times, where possible; Pre-start search (30mins shallow water, 60mins deep water) (MSS only) Page ES-17

19 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR BLOCK A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Aspect Management Objectives/ Commitments Mitigation Strategies / Measures Marine Mammal Observer present (MSS only) All sightings recorded (MSS only) Soft start (20mins) (MSS only) Prestart delay zones (500m of source) (MSS only) Routine atmospheric emissions Minimise impacts on air quality in operational area Comply with MARPOL73/78 Annex VI requirements specifically: Adequate maintenance of mechanical/motor systems (vessel operator to maintain maintenance and inspection log) Vessel to hold an International Air Pollution Prevention (IAPP) Certificate as appropriate to class Use of low sulphur fuel (sulphur content not to exceed 3.5% m/m) when it is available Practice segregation of waste - only appropriate non-hazardous wastes to be disposed in incinerator (wastes which cannot be safely incinerated are to be disposed of at shore base) Routine discharges Minimise reduction of water quality in vicinity of vessels from discharge of sewage, grey water, putrescible and other wastes Comply with MARPOL requirements for waste management, e.g. sewage treatment unit, oil/water separator, macerator for biodegradable waste Vessel to obtain International Sewage Pollution Prevention (ISPP) certificate and International Oil Pollution Prevention (IOPP) certificate, as appropriate to vessel class The vessel will carry waste management plan providing procedure for minimizing, collecting, storing, processing and disposing of garbage waste inventories will be maintained Maintain waste log including waste type, quantity and disposal method Routine light generation Minimise light disturbance to marine fauna Lighting will be minimised to sources required for navigational and operational safety reasons. On-board operational lighting will be located and oriented in such a way to direct working light where it is needed, and minimise light spill to the marine environment. Page ES-18

20 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR BLOCK A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Aspect Management Objectives/ Commitments Mitigation Strategies / Measures Seabed sampling No damage to undersea utilities, for example submarine cables or pipelines Confirm locations of undersea utilities prior to any benthic sampling Aspect Management Objectives/ Commitments Mitigation Strategies / Measures Unplanned Activities (Accidents/ Incidents) Unplanned discharges to the marine environment Avoid fuel and oil spills Minimise the potential impacts of fuel and oil spills on the marine environment Surveys will take place in the period of calmest weather and seas in the Project operational area. All survey vessels will be relatively slow moving approximately 4.5 knots. Notice to Mariners will be issued with the Myanmar ports authority to advise as many vessels as possible of the survey activities and timing. Survey vessels and chase boats with utilise radar and visual observation to track vessels in the area and where necessary advise of the activity by radio or hailed. Refuelling to commence during daylight and when sea conditions are appropriate as determined by the vessel master; Job hazard analysis (or equivalent) is undertaken in place and reviewed before each fuel transfer; Transfer hoses are fitted with dry-break couplings (or similar and checked for integrity); Spill response kits are maintained and located in close proximity to hydrocarbon bunkering areas to use to contain and recover deck spills; Bunkering operations will be manned with constant visual monitoring of gauges, hoses and fittings and sea surface; and Radio communications will be maintained between seismic and support vessel Page ES-19

21 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR BLOCK A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Aspect Management Objectives/ Commitments Mitigation Strategies / Measures In the event of any incidents which resulted in the release of hydrocarbon fuels to the marine environment, vessel Masters will enact a Shipboard Marine Pollution Emergency Plans (SOEPEP) Any fuel losses to the marine environment will be immediately reported to the relevant third-party authorities. Crew induction to include spill prevention, reporting and use of spill response equipment. Unplanned events associated with physical presence of project vessels Minimise likelihood of interactions with marine fauna Apply the procedures for vessel/marine fauna interactions as per IAGC/JNCC guidelines, these measures include: appropriate searches prior to start-up; soft start procedures; use of the Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) (MSS only) Use of tail buoys designed to minimise turtle interaction (MSS only) Any vessel or towed equipment interactions with marine fauna recorded and reported (MSS only) Where possible, reduction in vessel speed if mammals sighted within 500m Where possible, survey vessels will not approach closer than 100m for a cetacean (unless animals bow riding) Training of personnel Minimise risk of bringing exotic and pest marine species into Bay of Bengal via ballast water exchange All Woodside-contracted vessels will comply with IMO Ballast Water requirements Vessels which have obtained their ballast water from an area outside of Bay of Bengal / Andaman Sea are not to discharge it within 50 nautical miles from land, or in water depths less than 200m Vessels to maintain record of ballast water uptake and discharge locations Note that freshwater ballast can be discharged Page ES-20

22 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR BLOCK A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Aspect Management Objectives/ Commitments Mitigation Strategies / Measures Minimise risk of bringing exotic and pest marine species into coastal waters via biofouling of hull and other niches Woodside s invasive marine species risk assessment process will be applied Page ES-21

23 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR BLOCK A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Acoustic Disturbance to Marine Fauna The response of marine fauna to seismic airgun noise will range from no effect to various behavioural changes. Immediate physical effects likely only to occur at very short ranges and high sound intensities and will largely be unlikely to occur for the majority of species, as most free-swimming animals will practice avoidance manoeuvres well before they get within the ranges at which physical effects may occur. Animals that do not move away from the path of a seismic vessel because of behavioural or physical constraints, or which are caught unaware within a few hundred metres of an array when it starts up, will be most at risk of pathological effects. A behavioural response in marine mammals could occur within 2.0km in deep water and 6.1km in shallow water of the air gun source using the 160dB re 1µPa NMSF criteria. Noise associated with airguns used during seismic surveys can cause significant behavioural changes in whales, including swimming away from the source, rapid swimming on the surface and breaching. The level of noise at which a response is elicited varies between species and even between individuals within a species. With regards to avoidance behaviour by baleen whales; it is known that baleen whales will avoid operating seismic vessels and the distance over which the avoidance occurs seems to be highly variable between species and even within species. It is considered that this avoidance behaviour represents only a minor effect on either the individual or the species population unless avoidance results in displacement of whales from nursery, resting or feeding areas, at an important period for the species. The A-7 operational area and surrounding waters is not a known critical habitat for any cetacean species. For cetaceans, whale sharks and turtles that may be present in the operational area and surrounding waters during the survey periods, the implementation of the procedures based on the International Association of Geophysical Contractors (IAGC) Recommended Mitigation Measures For Cetaceans during Geophysical Operations and the United Kingdom Joint Nature Conservation Committee (UK JNCC) Guidelines for minimising the risk of injury and disturbance to marine mammals from seismic surveys, plus the implementation of specific vessel-marine fauna interaction procedures to minimise the risk of collision with the support and chase vessels, and the use of streamer tail buoys designed to minimise turtle interaction will minimise the likelihood of negative impacts upon these populations from survey activities. PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND INFORMATION DISCLOSURE Approach The public consultation for the Project in A-7 offshore Myanmar aimed to achieve a consistent, comprehensive, coordinated and culturally appropriate approach. Principles employed for consultation included: Stakeholder identification, analysis and mapping; Information disclosure; Consultation and participation, and Feedback system. Stakeholders were identified at three levels Union (Country/National level), Regional (Ayeyarwady Region) and Local (Township and Village-tract levels). Stakeholder groups included Government, civil society and institutions and potentially affected people in local communities. The consultation process was designed to align to the stages of an IEE, and involved three key phases: 1. Consultation for the IEE; Page ES-22

24 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR BLOCK A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR 2. Baseline Data Gathering: conducted from 28 th March 2015 to 24 th June 2015, and 3. Disclosure of the IEE (to be completed within ten days after submission of the report to MOECAF). Outcomes of Consultation These issues raised during public consultation, together with the findings of the baseline data gathering, have been considered when compiling the IEE. Some Union level Government departments highlighted the importance of following national regulations, verifying baseline data and community development needs. MOECAF provided details on the regulatory submission and approvals process. The Department of Fisheries representatives highlighted that they do not want local fishers to be affected by the seismic surveys and that they would have no objections to the activities if there were no impacts. They also advised that Woodside should gain consent of local authorities before undertaking the surveys and to inform the Department once the surveys have been completed. Stakeholders from the Ayeyarwady Regional Government encouraged Woodside to continue to engage with the Regional Government and requested more details on project activities (e.g. vessel specifications). Environmental Conservation was highlighted as an important issue, and specifically water and air pollution issues were raised. It was also emphasised that Woodside should engage transparently and sensitively with local communities. Representatives from coastal Village-tract communities raised a variety of issues. Lack of project understanding was identified as an issue, with some stakeholders requesting more information on details / specifications of project activities, expressing a lack of understanding about project activities or stating that they were afraid of project activities. Stakeholders also raised concerns about the potential negative impacts of the project on fishing activities and expressed concerns over fleeing and dying fish stocks. Requests were made for fishing not to be prohibited, interfered with or impacted upon. Some stakeholders also expressed concerns over the impacts of future oil and gas developments on fishing livelihoods and raised the issue of compensation, requesting that this be provided if any negative impacts were experienced. However, some stakeholders also stated that they did not think that negative impacts to fisheries would be likely. Requests for community development, corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes and local job creation were also raised. Some stakeholders also raised issues relating to environmental issues, namely water pollution, waste management, pest management and the impacts of sound waves on the seabed / geology. Land encroachment concerns and the creation of a high tide due to survey activities were also highlighted. Some civil society groups highlighted the importance of marine species conservation. One group stated that they were concerned that some fish species may move to different regions due to sound impacts, and if this situation occurred during peak season then fishers would be impacted. However, some organisations also stated that no problems were observed during previous seismic surveys. As per Myanmar regulations, this draft IEE will be made available for public comment. The full report will be made available to the public in English and a non-technical summary will be made available in Burmese. The report will be disclosed to stakeholders by means of local media, at public meeting places and at Woodside s office in Yangon. Page ES-23

25 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR BLOCK A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Plate 0-4: Disclosure of Project Activities, Ywar Thit Village-tract (29/03/2015) Plate 0-5: Disclosure of Project Activities, Thae Phyu Village-tract (31/03/2015) Page ES-24

26 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR BLOCK A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN Overview A Project-specific Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) has been prepared for the proposed marine seismic surveys and associated activities in A-7. The ESMP aims to provide an environmental and social management framework by outlining the compliance requirements, mitigation measures and monitoring programmes to be undertaken throughout the marine seismic surveys and associated activities. The ESMP has been prepared based on the findings of this IEE and describes management measures designed to mitigate potential environmental and social impacts of the proposed marine seismic surveys and associated to levels that are considered to be ALARP and acceptable. The overarching purpose of the ESMP is to: Integrate management and mitigation measures into the Project activities in order to reduce or mitigate any potential adverse impacts on natural and socio-economic environments. Consider and address the concerns and interests of stakeholders who will potentially be engaged or impacted during execution of the marine seismic surveys. Establish systems and processes for delivery and implementation of the Project environmental and social requirements in order to meet statutory and compliance standards. Stakeholder Engagement and Communications Plan The Stakeholder Engagement and Communications Plan details plans for the continued engagement and notification of the proposed activities with local coastal communities, fishers and key stakeholders prior to, during and after the surveys are completed. The Plan contains actions and protocols that satisfy management requirements of both the Social Management Plan and ongoing stakeholder engagement requirements. The Plan will be regularly revisited, updated and improved over the life of the Project as more information is gained about stakeholders and their needs. As part of this Plan, a Community Grievance Mechanism will be established and communicated. Roles and Responsibilities The ESMP describes the key roles and responsibilities for all personnel (Woodside and contractors; onshore and offshore) who will be involved in the Project. Monitoring, Record Keeping and Reporting The ESMP details all of the monitoring, record keeping and reporting requirements for the 2D and 3D MSS and associated activities in the A-7 operational area. Auditing and Review Environmental performance auditing will be undertaken to confirm that all significant environmental and social aspects of the seismic survey activity are covered by the ESMP. It will also confirm that the standards to achieve environmental and social performance are being implemented and identify opportunities for continuous improvement and potential non-conformances. Page ES-25

27 OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR BLOCK A-7, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR Emergency Response Project-specific Emergency Response Plans (ERP) will be developed by the survey contractors and submitted to Woodside for review and approval prior to commencement of the surveys. All vessels (seismic, support and chase vessels) involved in the Project will have onboard equipment for responding to emergencies, including but not limited to medical and firefighting equipment, and spill response equipment. CONCLUSIONS With the control and mitigation measures that will be employed, the environmental and social impacts of the proposed Project in A-7, offshore Myanmar, are expected to be localised and temporary. Overall, the proposed 2D and 3D MSS, gravity and magnetic data acquisition, and seabed sampling are not expected to have any long-term effects on local or regional biodiversity. The data acquisition will not adversely impact ecosystem structure and function, for any of the key environmental and social sensitivities and values identified for the marine environment of the operational area and surrounding waters. The characteristics of the activities, particularly their relatively short duration and separation (temporal and/or spatial) from sensitive environmental and social resources, mitigate many of the potential environmental and social effects of the Project. The risk assessment indicates that, with appropriate management, the residual environmental and social impacts associated with the proposed Project are all ranked Low, are ALARP and acceptable. There are no High, Medium or Severe ranked environmental and social impacts associated with the Project. This IEE describes the potential environmental and social impacts associated with the proposed Project in A-7, offshore Myanmar. The environmental and social impacts arising from the Project will not have any significant negative effects on the environment during and after the proposed activities. This outcome will be assured by the implementation of the management and mitigation measures described in this IEE (i.e. in the ESMP). Page ES-26