Green Connection slams EIA approval of Shell's Northern Cape oil exploration project

THE Green Connection, a South African nonprofit organisation focused on environmental and social justice, said on Tuesday it notes with deep concern and surprise the recent approval of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Shell's proposed Northern Cape Ultra Deep (NCUD) oil and gas exploration project.

- PHILIPPA LARKIN

Shell has been granted environmental authorisation to drill up to five deep-water wells off South Africa's west coast, the company said on Friday, Reuters reported.

The oil major applied for authorisation last year and plans to drill exploration or appraisal wells in the Northern Cape Ultra Deep Block in the Orange Basin, at water depths ranging between 2 500 metres and 3 200 metres.

Block NCUD is located off the West Coast of South Africa, roughly between Port Nolloth and Saldanha Bay.

This approval comes despite repeated objections raised by coastal communities and civil society, including detailed submissions by The Green Connection and Natural Justice in August and December 2024.