We provided specialist environmental survey services during a site survey campaign onboard the Kommandor Iona in June 2021, supporting iSurvey and their client. The campaign focused on two legacy oil and gas sites both located in UK Block 211 in the northern North Sea, approximately 150 km northeast of Shetland.
Delivering end-to-end environmental survey capability
Working as a trusted subcontractor, we were responsible for all environmental sampling and analysis to inform both post-decommissioning and environmental baseline assessments. Surveys included:
- Grab sampling at more than 60 stations to assess sediment physico-chemical characteristics and macrobenthic communities.
- Drop-down camera deployments to capture habitat imagery and support habitat classification.
- Contaminant analysis including hydrocarbons, PCBs, organotins and metals.
This work enabled high-resolution characterisation of seabed conditions and contributed to long-term environmental monitoring commitments at each site.
Monitoring recovery and environmental status
At one site, the survey provided continuity with historical datasets and the results showed encouraging signs of ecological recovery, with declining contaminant concentrations and the return of diverse faunal assemblages.
At the other, the environmental baseline survey provided a comparison with pre-decommissioning conditions and the majority of stations showed good environmental quality.
Across both sites, we identified conservation-interest species, such as Arctica islandica and Funiculina quadrangularis, and provided detailed interpretation to support regulatory compliance.
Supporting responsible decommissioning
These projects demonstrate our capability in delivering integrated environmental support to clients and contractors involved in offshore oil and gas decommissioning. From survey planning through to laboratory analysis and reporting, we continue to provide the robust data and insights needed to meet environmental obligations in complex marine environments.
