The BSEE Gulf of Mexico Region has developed a new marine training video focusing on the elimination of debris associated with oil and gas operations on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS).
Marine debris are an increasing problem in recent decades. The biggest reason for this is the transition to a “disposable society” with many products designed for short-term use and most packaging designed for one-time use.
While plastics may constitute only about 13% of our wastes, their long durability results in massive concentration. Estimates of plastic debris finding its way into our oceans range from about 5 to 13 million tons each year just from the coastal zone.
In the US, about 80% of marine debris ends up into the oceans from land-based sources and 20% is from ocean sources. Ocean sources include shipping, fishing, cruise lines, military, and industry. The oil and gas industry is only one part of those sources.