Environmental Impacts of FPSO Vessels in the Arctic: Toward a Framework for Sustainable Offshore Production

IJEP 46(3): 255-262 : Vol. 46 Issue. 3 (March 2026)

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Vijayalakshmi Ramalingam and Aswin Sriram*

Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, Chennai – 603 110, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Floating production storage and offloading (FPSOs) vessels, have become a vital part of offshore oil and gas extraction infrastructure, especially in remote, environmentally sensitive areas, like the Arctic. As oil and gas exploration extends into waters with polar temperatures, concerns about FPSOs have increased. This paper aims to provide an overview of the environmental impacts of FPSOs in the Arctic. Specifically, it examines chemical discharges, water contamination, physical disturbances and heat emissions. Pollution can enter the ocean through produced water, drilling waste, noise pollution, sediment resuspension and hot effluents. Each of these poses unique challenges in this cold, icy region, which recovers slowly from such impacts. The negative effects on marine life and habitats—caused by pollution from oil industry—have been observed, leading to health risks for humans. This study offers a forward-looking perspective grounded in scientific evidence. It proposes a conceptual framework for sustainable FPSO operations in the Arctic. The focus is on strategies that will maintain environmental conditions. The discussions aim to help industry stakeholders, regulators and researchers develop environmentally responsible offshore practices in the constantly changing Arctic environment.

Keywords

Floating production storage and offloading, Arctic ope-rations, Oil and gas, Ocean pollution, Sustainable measures

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