Abstract

An Environmental Impact Assessment of offshore flares located in 'Sonda de Campeche', Mexico was performed to evaluate their effect on the regions adjoining offshore development. Air and water contamination besides solid wastes are considered to be the main pollutants. A comparative analysis of the laws pertaining to offshore industry in Mexico, Canada, and United States is addressed. As a result of this study, it was found that there was no significant impact from water pollutants or waste management residues during the installation or production phases of the flares, due to offshore development in the concerned areas. Moreover, for air pollution, four air contaminants (NO2, CO, CO2, and CH4) were found to comply with environmental laws (Mexican, and International). On the contrary, three other air pollutants (SO2, H2S, and PM10) do not comply with the standards. Therefore, three actions are recommended to be implemented in the following order. First, chemical absorption is suggested to remove NO X, SO2, and H2S. Following this, the height of flare is to be increased by 15 meters. Finally, a Floating Storage Re-gasification Unit is to be installed in a relatively isolated region. The last action ensures a drastic reduction of air pollution and provides a reservoir for natural gas. The natural gas can be purchased by a private company or can be utilized by the Mexican Industry