Maximizing Ecosystem Service Benefits While Managing Site Risks – NEBA Applied to Offshore Decommissioning
Oceans provide habitats for fish, marine mammals, and invertebrates such as mussels, oysters and shrimp – it is no surprise that humans benefit from these habitats in a variety of ways. Because it is widely recognized that ecosystems provide resources and functions that we value, and because we value these benefits, we recognize that ecosystems provide a service to people. Hence the term “ecosystem services” – “the benefits that ecosystems provide to humans”.
Understanding the scientific weight of evidence regarding the ecosystem services provided by the presence of subsea infrastructure, declines in natural reef areas, and climate adaptation considerations, it is imperative to understand and consider the benefits associated with these developed ecosystems, and the potential impacts, positive and negative, that decommissioning options can have on these ecosystem services.
