Lukoil develops Arctic oil spill treatment process

Approved by the State Expert Review Agency, the technology has already received nine patents and was subjected to pilot tests to assess its effectiveness in real life situations.

It utilises specific strains of microorganisms as conventional techniques and skimming to contain oil spills turn ineffective in the extreme Artic environment.

These biologicals are not produced using any harmful substances and they do not release any toxic compounds in air or water. Accordingly, the technology can be used to treat contaminated areas in the Arctic and the Atlantic Oceans.

The company also noted that the development underpins the use of special biologicals for marine, fresh and mesohalobiotic environments.

Besides controlling contamination, the new technology is expected to reduce the hazardous impact of oil spills on marine life and birds minimising the risk of greasing of integuments.

The oil spill response technology also complies with Lukoil’s biodiversity preservation plan, devised to ensure safe development of the Arctic region.