Introduction

The maritime industry is abuzz with discussions surrounding Woodside Energy’s proposal for carbon capture and storage (CCS) as part of its Browse project off Western Australia. The Australian government’s recent call for public consultation on this matter has sparked opposition from environmental groups, highlighting the need for a comprehensive review of the potential environmental impacts.

Understanding the Browse CCS Project

The Browse CCS project aims to capture and sequester CO2 from the Brecknock, Calliance, and Torosa natural gas fields in the Browse Basin. The proposal involves transporting and injecting up to 14,200 tonnes of CO2 per day into the Calliance Storage Formation near Scott Reef. This initiative is expected to reduce GHG emissions by approximately 53 million tonnes over the project’s lifetime.

Key Features of the Project

• Development of the Brecknock, Calliance, and Torosa gas fields.
• Transportation and injection of up to 270 mmscfd of CO2.
• Expected annual injection rate of 3-4 million tonnes per annum (mtpa).
• Sequestration of at least 85% of the CO2 removed from reservoir fluids.

Environmental Concerns and Opposition

Environmental groups have raised several concerns regarding the Browse CCS project. The Greens party has criticized the timing of the public consultation and called for an extension and a full environmental assessment. Key environmental risks highlighted by Greenpeace include:

• CO2 toxicity: Potential harm to marine life.
• Earthquakes: Seismic activity that could disrupt the injection site.
• Leakage: Risk of CO2 escaping from the storage formation.
• Seismic blasting: Impact on marine ecosystems.

Public Consultation and Environmental Impact Statement

The public consultation period, which began on January 2 and closes on January 16, allows interested parties to voice their opinions on whether an environmental impact statement is required. Environmental groups argue that the consultation period is insufficient and that the project’s environmental risks warrant a thorough assessment.

Conclusion

The Browse CCS project represents a significant initiative in the maritime industry’s efforts to reduce GHG emissions. However, the environmental risks and concerns raised by groups like the Greens and Greenpeace underscore the need for a comprehensive environmental impact assessment. As the maritime industry continues to evolve, balancing the need for energy production with environmental sustainability will be crucial.

Sources:

• Woodside Accused of Greenwashing Over CCS Plans
• EXTRACTED: Daily News Clips 1/14/25 | Pipeline Fighters Hub
• newsssessments-woodside-accused-of-greenwashing-over-ccs-plans
• Petronas to Retain National Authority After Sarawak Gas Deal
• Woodside Accused of Greenwashing Over CCS Plans https://ift.tt/M6XFxge …
• Latest News – page 2679
• Woodside Accused of Greenwashing Over CCS Plans
• Woodside Accused of Greenwashing Over CCS Plans