Groups Challenge Shell’s Approval for Ultra-Deep Drilling
Civil society groups and West Coast communities have appealed the government’s approval of Shell’s Northern Cape Ultra Deep oil and gas project. The Green Connection, Natural Justice and local fishers say the project’s Environmental and Social Impact Assessment is flawed, with no clear emergency plan for what would be South Africa’s deepest offshore well and the third deepest in the world. They argue that the risk of a blowout is underestimated, with contingency plans based on an unrealistic 20-day oil spill scenario. Shahil Singh, Legal Advisor at The Green Connection, elaborates…
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Connect
According to The Green Connection, suitable
equipment for the project’s extreme 3,200 m depth is only available overseas,
and access is uncertain. Opponents warn the project threatens marine life,
fishing livelihoods, tourism and South Africa’s climate commitments. They are
calling on the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment to revoke
Shell’s authorisation, saying it risks food security, cultural heritage and the
right to a healthy environment. Neville van Rooy, Community
Outreach Coordinator at The Green Connection, adds…
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