[ad_1]
The decision awaits another final verdict but has been raised by environmentalists who say their explosions and noises are damaging the marine world and coastal communities.
South African Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe has condemned the project’s critics, saying they want to deny the country energy resources.
In his ruling High Court Judge Gerald Bloem said the Shell group’s right to explore the waters off the ‘Wild Coast’ coast was granted based on an erroneous consultation process.
The 250km coastline of this province is known for its natural beauty and marine world.
Activists say many sea creatures including whales, dolphins and seals are damaged by strong seismic testing for oil and gas.
Local communities are also represented in the case as affected by their land and fisheries rights.
Local activist Nonhle Mbuthuma welcomed the decision, saying: “We as coastal communities have relied on the sea for centuries and the judge has rightly recognized that our life and food from the ocean should not be sacrificed for short-term benefits.”
Seismic studies are performed as a tool to create a map of hydrocarbons found below the earth’s surface.
In the tests massive underwater shock waves are released towards the bottom of the sea. The echo of the sounds reveals if there is oil in the reefs.
Shell has been conducting surveys of about 6,000-square-kilometers in the area since early December after a court granted it permission earlier.
Activist Katherine Robinson said the decision was a significant victory but “the effort is not over”.
“The decision is just a stoppage. “We understand that they will not give up,” she told AFP.
top channel
[ad_2]
Source link
