A marine charity has warned the UK risks leaving a “ticking timebomb” in its seas unless ageing offshore oil and gas infrastructure is properly cleaned up.
Oceana UK says it has identified 1,685 active or unplugged oil and gas wells inside marine protected areas, raising concerns about the legacy of decades of offshore extraction.
The findings come as ministers prepare the Energy Independence Bill, which is expected to legislate for an end to new oil and gas licences.
Oceana says that should be matched by a stronger plan to decommission old offshore infrastructure and make oil and gas companies pay for the clean-up.
Its assessment combines environmental and economic analysis of decommissioning in UK waters.
The charity claims delaying work could increase pollution risks, damage marine habitats and allow methane leakage to continue for decades.
It says ageing pipelines and other offshore assets can contain toxic contaminants including mercury, lead and radioactive material, which may pose risks to marine wildlife if infrastructure is left to degrade.
The report also says more than 1,700 kilometres of pipelines run through two protected marine areas that support species, including harbour porpoise and the threatened ocean quahog clam.
Oceana argues that effective decommissioning could help restore marine ecosystems while creating skilled work for offshore communities.
Hugo Tagholm, Director of Oceana UK, said: “UK seas are home to extraordinary wildlife. They are also criss-crossed by pipelines, potentially leaching toxic chemicals, that cover a distance equivalent to 38 round trips to the International Space Station.
“Without timely and effective decommissioning, this growing legacy of infrastructure risks becoming a ticking timebomb for UK seas.”
He said the Energy Independence Bill gives the UK a chance to lead on the transition away from fossil fuels by tackling not only future licensing but also the infrastructure already left behind.
Oceana said polling carried out by YouGov for the charity showed nearly two-thirds of British adults are concerned about the impact of oil pollution on UK waters.
It also said 77% support government action requiring oil and gas companies to remove offshore infrastructure at the end of its operational life.
The report claims faster decommissioning could support 25,000 jobs across the UK supply chain, including extending the careers of around 15,000 existing offshore workers.
Oceana is calling on the Government to maintain its commitment to end new oil and gas licences, hold industry accountable for clean-up costs and invest in the workforce needed to build a major UK decommissioning sector.
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