Published 28.04.2023

Equinor has submitted an application for changes in chemical use and emissions at the Gullfaks field, related to well stimulation on the field's satellites. The company is requesting an exemption from the requirement to collect and treat chemicals in the red category, which has caused a strong reaction from NMF

NMF is highly critical of Equinor's claim that collecting proppants and other chemicals that return over time is not practically feasible at Gullfaks. The environmental organization points out that technology for effective collection and separation already exists and has been used with good results at several of Equinor's facilities, including Gullfaks. According to NMF, it is therefore difficult to understand why Equinor does not see this as a feasible solution, and they believe the reason may be economic considerations rather than practical challenges.

The chemicals are environmental hazards

The proppants planned for use, the so-called "Resin Coated Proppants," contain several harmful substances, including phenols and formaldehyde, which are known for their damaging effects on the marine ecosystem. According to the datasheet attached to the application, it is clear that these substances should not be released into the sea and should be collected and treated in a safe manner.

NMF points out that the proposed change will not only increase the discharge of hazardous substances but will also mean that Equinor is not adhering to the principles of Best Available Technology (BAT), which is a requirement to minimize the environmental impact of oil production.

Fare for «hardere drift» og miljøovertredelser

NMF is also concerned that this application could be a first step toward a trend where oil companies seek to operate the fields "harder" to maximize oil extraction, without giving adequate consideration to the environment. The Environmental Protection Association warns that this practice could lead to environmental concerns being overlooked in the pursuit of economic gain, and urges authorities not to grant exemptions that increase environmental impact.

We request a rejection

Based on these concerns, NMF demands that Equinor's application be rejected. The environmental organization emphasizes that any changes that could lead to increased emissions of harmful substances must be critically assessed, and that new measures should have a clearly improving effect on the environment.

This is an application that in no way can be approved. Changes that lead to increased emissions of harmful substances into the sea are unacceptable, and we expect the authorities to take a clear stance on this matter," says NMF in their consultation response.

The Norwegian Environment Agency has now received the consultation response and will assess Equinor's application in line with the environmental considerations raised.

• Høring Equinor Gullfaks økt utslipp proppanter 23.04.24 (PDF)
• Miljødirektoratet – Bekreftelse på mottatt høringssvar (PDF)