Shell UK Limited,
Shell-Mex House,
Strand,
LONDON WC2R 0DX
For immediate release: June 20 1995
BRENT SPAR
Shell U.K. Limtited still believes that deep water disposal of the Brent Spar is the best practicable environmental option, which was supported by independent studies. Shell UK obtained the necessary permit for disposal for the UK authorities, which have handled every aspect of the approval process in accordance with established national and international policies and standards.
As the disposal involved the Atlantic deep water, other governments have taken an interest and voiced strong objections. Notwithstanding the efforts to convince these governments of the validity of the approach, most of them remain strongly against deep water disposal.
The European companies of the Royal Dutch/Shell Group find themselves in an intenable position and feel that it is not possible to continue without wider support from the governments participating in the Oslo-Paris Convention.
Shell UK has decided to abandon deepwater disposal and seek from the UK authoities a licence for onshore disposal. This application for onshore disposal wil include a further review of methods to minimise the risks involved.
The way forward will require the co-operation of all concerned, in particular the support of other governments in securing the availability of a deep water safe anchorage for Brent Spar in the immediate future.
ENQUIRIES
Shell UK Media Relations 0171-257-3152/3333/3889/3100