The Senegalese government is embedding environmental protection as a central pillar of its energy policy, particularly through the ongoing renegotiation of oil and gas contracts, according to Minister of Energy, Petroleum, and Mines Birame Souleye Diop.
Speaking at the opening of a workshop presenting the strategic environmental assessment of the oil and gas sector and the Atlas of Senegal’s Marine and Coastal Environment, alongside Minister of the Environment and Ecological Transition Daouda Ngom, Minister Diop emphasized that this approach reflects a strong commitment to sustainable development. The workshop is taking place in Dakar.
“The revision of the Petroleum Code, the adoption of a new Environmental Code taking into account the specific characteristics of the oil and gas industry, as well as the passage of the Local Content Act, illustrate the State’s commitment to developing its resources while protecting the environment and human dignity,” Minister Diop stated. He stressed that any future oil or gas development activity will be contingent upon a prior strategic environmental and social assessment. The Minister welcomed the availability of this crucial decision-making tool, which will guide Senegal’s future choices in the energy sector.
He further highlighted that the strategic assessment and the Atlas of the Marine and Coastal Environment are essential instruments for reassuring local communities and effectively addressing their environmental concerns related to energy projects.
The comprehensive study was conducted by an interministerial working group comprising representatives from the Ministries of Environment and Energy, with valuable contributions from universities and national research centers. The project also received support from the Oil and Gas Project Negotiation Support Project, led by GES-PETROGAZ. This collaborative effort underscores Senegal’s commitment to a holistic and environmentally responsible approach to its burgeoning oil and gas industry.
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