Press Release
February 17, 2004
Conservation Group questions Science Panel Conclusion on Offshore Oil and Gas Moratorium
VANCOUVER - While the "Royal Society of Canada Expert Panel to Review Science Issues Related to the Moratorium on Oil and Gas Activities Offshore B.C." detailed a long list of science gaps, the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society expressed concern today over the Panel's conclusion that the moratorium on offshore oil and gas could be lifted before all of the science gaps are addressed.
"In our view, the science gaps identified by the panel are so serious and extensive, that they must be addressed first, if British Columbians are to make an informed decision on whether or not the moratorium should be lifted," said Sabine Jessen, Conservation Director for the BC Chapter of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS-BC).
The panel did recognize the significance of the globally unique Hecate Strait sponge reefs, which date back 9000 years and have been recommended for World Heritage status through UNESCO (United Nations Environment, Science and Culture Organization).
"We are pleased that the Panel has recognized the significance of the glass sponge reefs and has recommended their immediate protection through Marine Protected Areas," said Jodi Stark, Marine Campaign Assistant for CPAWS-BC,
"However, without adequate science, it is irresponsible to assume that seismic testing, as well as other oil and gas activities, will not adversely affect and possible destroy the sponge reefs, even if a marine protected area is established around them", said Stark.
According to Dr. Manfred Krautter from the University of Stuttgart, "We know from the fossil record that hexactinellid sponges are very sensitive organisms which need long-time stable environmental conditions." Dr. Krautter noted in his brief to the panel that given their known sensitivity to sedimentation, that "Exploration drilling will increase the suspended sediment concentration in the benthic environment, posing severe threats to the survival of the reefs." He also warned that "Hydrocarbon pollution can devastate the reefs."
Jessen noted that "While there are huge knowledge gaps about the ecosystems of the Queen Charlotte Basin, we do know that this area is home to many endangered and threatened species and the only known communities of glass sponge reefs in the world. Acting on the moratorium in the face of these extensive science gaps is very premature."
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Contacts:
Sabine Jessen
Conservation Director
CPAWS-BC
Tel: 604-685-7445
Cell: 604-657-2813
Jodi Stark
Marine Campaign Assistant
CPAWS-BC
Tel: 604-685-7445
CPAWS - British Columbia Chapter