Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: TH
Context: The U.K. plans to conduct more fossil fuel drilling in the North Sea, sparking concerns about its alignment with climate goals. The North Sea Transition Authority (NTSA) is conducting offshore oil and gas licensing, with over 100 licenses expected to be awarded. This move aims to enhance energy independence.
What is the North Sea?
Geographically, the North Sea lies between England and Scotland on its west, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France on its south, and Norway, Denmark, and Germany on its East.
Why is the North Sea important?
Almost the entire seabed of the North Sea is a continental shelf (depth of only about 200 meters). The geological formations beneath the North Sea, such as porous rocks and structural traps, provide suitable environments for the collection of oil and gas reserves.
Why is offshore drilling problematic?
Offshore drilling is problematic due to its environmental risks, including threats to marine life, biodiversity, climate change, and ocean ecosystems.
The 1958 Geneva Convention (which came into force in 1964) on the Continental Shelf was the first international legislation to establish the rights of countries over the continental shelves adjacent to their coastlines and paved the way for exploration in the North Sea.
