China Blasts ConocoPhillips for Negligence in Recent Oil Spills

The State Oceanic Administration of China stated on Friday that it was negligence by a ConocoPhillips subsidiary which caused the recent string of oil leaks and spills in China’s Bohai Bay.

The SOA released a statement following investigations that found there were serious shortcomings in ConocoPhillips China’s management and operations, failing to take preventive measures against oil leaks even after signs of a serious problem emerged.  The company also violated environmental impact assessment report requirements, which hindered their ability to respond to the accidents, causing further spillage.

The incidents in question took place throughout June at Penglai 19-3, China’s largest oil field.  It was one problem after another for the ConocoPhillips operated, and state-owned partnered field that has caused major oceanic oil pollution and attracted sharp criticism from maritime authorities and environmentalists.  The Chinese administration said that the oil spill covered around 2,400 square miles of surface water.

Chinese officials have already ordered ConocoPhillips to stop all production before a full cleanup is conducted and passing a governmental review that is aimed to ensure no more oil makes its way into the ocean.

Although Houston-based ConocoPhillips responded on Friday stressing that they are making improvements to their procedures and safety, and have fully cooperated throughout the disaster setting up funds for the Bohai Bay damage, the SOA said that they have plans to pursue legal action against the company.