press release DMCR steps up to take ownership of the Rigs-to-Reefs project from Chevron, following the placement of 7 retired platform jackets as artificial reefs in Surat Thani

The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR), together with Chevron Thailand Exploration and Production, Ltd. (Chevron Thailand), has recently implemented the pioneering project on the use of 7 idle platform jackets as artificial reefs for marine and coastal resources conservation in Koh Pha-Ngan, Surat Thani. The placement of the first platform jacket as artificial reefs has commenced on August 11, 2020, with the last jacket placement completed on September 24, 2020. The initiative’s as-built drawings have been inspected and approved by marine experts upon the completion of the project. Today (November 18, 2020) marks the official handover of the project to the DMCR for further management of the reef site.

Sopon Thongdee, DMCR Director-General, revealed after the handover ceremony, held at Centra by Centara Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre that “The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) has partnered with Chevron Thailand Exploration and Production, Ltd. to implement the pioneering project on the use of 7 idle platform jackets as artificial reefs for marine and coastal resources conservation in Koh Pha-Ngan, Surat Thani since 2018. Prior to the actual platform jacket placement, the initiative has undergone a feasibility and ecological study, conducted by the Petroleum Institute of Thailand and Kasetsart University’s Fisheries as well as public hearings among local communities to ensure the project’s viability. The project has earlier been reviewed and approved by the National Policy and Plan Committee for Marine and Coastal Resources Management. The DMCR is declaring the site a protected area and is development the project framework and plan to manage the project, tracking possible impact and benefits from the artificial reef placement. The DMCR is following up and engaging in close monitoring of the project’s socio-economic and environmental aftereffect with respect to the project’s future direction and contribution to establishing Thailand’s knowledge on the subject. Lastly, I would like to express my sincere appreciation of Chevron Thailand’s continued support and collaboration on marine conservation, as one of Thailand’s leading petroleum exploration and production companies. I believe the partnership between the two parties will remain close to sustainably preserve and restore marine resources in Thailand.

 

Pairoj Kaweeyanun, president of Chevron Thailand Exploration and Production, Ltd., said “Chevron Thailand is delighted to fully support this endeavor by supplying the DMCR with idle platform jackets that can serve as artificial reefs for marine conservation purposes, facilitating the placement of the jackets as well as the budget for the project. In addition, Chevron has sought the support from local and international experts and leveraged cutting-edge technology to support the study of this historic initiative. I strongly believe this pioneering project will deliver critical findings and knowledge on developing artificial reefs from idle platform jackets for the purpose of sustainable marine conservation. The practice has been successful in many countries around the world. Throughout the project operation, Chevron has placed the highest priority on safety, and conducted the project in accordance with national and international laws and regulations. The Rigs-to-Reefs project was granted permissions from relevant authorities including the DMCR, Department of Mineral Fuels, Royal Thai Navy, Marine Department and Department of Fisheries. Moreover, Chevron has worked on the project under the partnership with Mitsui Oil Exploration Co.,Ltd. and PTT Exploration and Production Public Co.,Ltd., all committed to conserving and rehabilitating Thai seas for the future.”