Seismic testing reports of destruction
Seismic testing, particularly along the Wild Coast of South Africa, has been a topic of significant concern and controversy due to its potential environmental impacts. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the situation, including the potential effects of seismic testing and recent developments:
What is Seismic Testing?
Seismic testing is a method used by oil and gas companies to locate underwater oil and gas reserves. It involves emitting powerful sound waves into the ocean floor and analyzing the reflected signals to map potential hydrocarbon deposits.
Seismic testing Environmental Concerns
- Marine Life Disruption:
- The loud noise from seismic airguns can disturb marine animals, including whales, dolphins, and fish. These sounds can cause disorientation, stress, and even physical harm to marine life.
- Ecosystem Impact:
- Seismic testing can disrupt the natural behavior of marine animals, affecting feeding, mating, and communication patterns. It can also lead to habitat displacement and increased mortality rates.
- Fishing Industry Effects:
- The testing can negatively impact fish populations, leading to reduced catches and affecting local fishing communities economically.
Recent Developments on the Wild Coast
- Legal Challenges:
- There have been significant legal battles regarding seismic testing along the Wild Coast. Local communities, environmental groups, and activists have filed lawsuits to halt such activities, arguing that they violate environmental protection laws and threaten biodiversity.
- Court Rulings:
- In recent years, South African courts have made several rulings on seismic testing in the region. For instance, in 2021, a court halted Shell’s seismic testing activities off the Wild Coast, siding with indigenous communities and environmental groups concerned about ecological and cultural impacts.
- Community and Indigenous Rights:
- Indigenous communities living along the Wild Coast have been vocal in opposing seismic testing, citing the potential harm to their traditional fishing practices and sacred sites. The legal victories for these communities have highlighted the importance of respecting indigenous rights and environmental stewardship.
Scientific Reports and Studies
- Impact Studies:
- Various studies have been conducted to assess the environmental impact of seismic testing. These studies often highlight the potential risks to marine ecosystems and stress the need for comprehensive environmental assessments before conducting such activities.
- Alternatives and Mitigation:
- Scientists and environmentalists advocate for alternative technologies and methods that minimize the environmental footprint of seismic testing. This includes developing quieter exploration technologies and implementing stringent monitoring and mitigation measures.
Public and Environmental Advocacy
- Activism and Campaigns:
- Environmental organizations such as Greenpeace and local NGOs have been actively campaigning against seismic testing along the Wild Coast, raising awareness and mobilizing public support.
- International Attention:
- The issue has garnered international attention, with calls for stronger regulations and oversight of seismic testing activities to protect vulnerable marine environments.
Conclusion
Seismic testing along the Wild Coast of South Africa remains a contentious issue, with significant environmental, legal, and social implications. The ongoing legal battles and advocacy efforts underscore the importance of balancing economic interests with environmental protection and community rights. Ensuring the preservation of the Wild Coast’s unique biodiversity and cultural heritage requires careful consideration of the potential impacts of seismic testing and a commitment to sustainable development practices.
Seismic testing evidence
Seismic testing reports of destruction on social media. According to News24: “Shell began its undersea blasting on 8 December 2021, which is said to take between 110 and 140 days.” I decided to compile all the photo evidence along the South African Wild Coast in this blog post.
So far no solid piece of evidence or scientific report has been received where one can conclusively say ‘Shell is Responsible’.
All findings can be reported to Bayworld at 041 584 0650 or Bayworld Stranding Hotline 071 724 2122
Twitter post: 21 December 2021
Black steenbras Tshani Beach
https://web.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=4932330860112820&set=a.650928451586437
Beaked whale – between Pullins Bay and Bosbokstrand – 23 December 2021
This baby dolphin was found on the rocks in Plett (also on the 18th of Dec) and was sent to Cape Nature to do a necropsy.
Humpback whale – between Sardinia Bay and Skoenmarkers – 20 December 2021
Washed up at Cefani (just above Cintsa east) thousands of them – Cape stumpnose commonly silvies. 21 December 2021
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10157893608781626&set=gm.491743595573313
Middle Beach Kenton on Sea EC – 23 December 2021
Port Alfred. Dead plankton – 27 December 2021
https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=10227541238980678&set=pcb.411831713959023
https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=10160313038637792&set=pcb.492695988811407
Ray – Kasouga Eastern Cape 28 December 2021
https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=10160326228322792&set=gm.496318951782444
Dolphin at Palm Beach – 29 December 2021
Dolphin at Margate – 29 December 2021
https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=4458109214311638&set=a.1028232447299349
Dolphin at Palm beach KZN South coast 30 December 2021
Report received from Jeff Brown Port Alfred:’We also have, very notably, not seen a dolphin in at least 3 weeks, or any sign of migrating whales in over 2 months. It’s not just the absence of proven damage, it’s the overall absence of normal December activity report the Unseen: ( Absence of Sealife ) https://www.facebook.com/groups/442430870877704/user/100003500833868/
You would also be interested in my previous blog post:
https://www.wwbirds.co.za/dir/shell-oil-doing-seismic-testing-along-south-african-shores/
A song for Shell Oil (John Lennon – Imagine Reimagined) // Save South Africa’s Wild Coast by The Kiffness:
Great work thank you! Permission to publish in the Green Times?
We must keep up the pressure, especially since more testing planned again.
Hi Elma, thanks for your comment. Unfortunately, the photos come from social media where sharing is easily shared among pages and groups. I posted links at each photo where permission can be obtained from the original photographers.