http://www.adn.com/2011/08/20/2023935/our-view-shell-spill.html
BOTTOM LINE: North Sea spill underscores the need for a sharp watch in the Arctic. (DeeVon per Richard Charter)
Published: August 20th, 2011 07:11 PM
Last Modified: August 20th, 2011 07:11 PM
The oil that leaked from a valve on a Royal Dutch Shell pipeline in the North Sea has spilled into the question of offshore drilling in Alaska’s Arctic.
Drilling foes cite the Aug. 10 spill, which Shell pegged at 1,300 barrels, as an example of why we shouldn’t allow drilling in the Beaufort or Chukchi seas. They argue that too little is known about the Arctic environment, too little support is too far away if something goes wrong, and conditions are too harsh for effective spill cleanup.
Critics argue that Shell should have been more forthcoming about the North Sea leak and spill. Shell didn’t go public with the incident until two days after discovery, and then acknowledged a continuing small leak after reporting the spill was under control.
What should Alaskans take from this?
This should be a caution, not a show-stopper.
First, Shell’s 2012 work in the Arctic is exploratory. There’s a big difference between exploration and production, with far less risk in the former.
The Coast Guard, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar have said they’re confident Shell can safely handle exploration of what appear to be world-class sources of oil and natural gas. Let’s find out what’s there.
If fields prove up, production is still eight to 10 years away. More permitting will be required. We have time to learn more and prepare. During exploration, Shell can further refine its operations and build public confidence.
Second, let the North Sea spill be a reminder of the need for constant vigilance and no complacency.
Third, the only way to guarantee no spill in the Arctic is to never drill or produce there. That’s not realistic. Companies already produce oil in the Arctic with both nearshore and onshore operations and, onshore, the means to move oil to market. The nation needs the energy and the jobs; Alaska wants to fill its pipeline for decades yet.
What should Shell take from this?
First, constant vigilance and no complacency. That’s what executives Marvin Odum and Pete Slaiby have promised for Alaska’s Arctic. They must deliver.
Second, be forthcoming about everything — risks, mitigation, prevention and response.
If there’s a spill or any other problem, let people know right away. In the long run, that will go further to build trust and support than any effort to manage the message.
No spill is good, but let’s hope the North Sea spill is more lesson than damage. Let’s learn, and proceed with care.
Special thanks to Richard Charter