In a statement Sakhalin Energy said, “We have commissioned the IUCN to convene an independent panel to review the effectiveness of mitigation measures to minimise the impact of its operations on Western Gray Whales as we develops the Sakhalin II Phase 2 project. The Independent Scientific Review Panel will study the key issues concerning conservation of the whales in relation to the company’s activities.”

“Sakhalin Energy is committed to ensuring that the Sakhalin II Phase 2 project can be developed while minimising any impact on the whales. We have been operating offshore Sakhalin since 1999 and [have] implemented a program of protection measures for the whales, including vessel exclusion zones and noise and speed limits. The company reports that there has been no discernible change in behaviour or impact on the whales from Sakhalin Energy’s existing operations,” it added.

According to the man who will chair the Independent Scientific Review Panel, Dr Randall Reeves, “The intent of our review will be to examine the evidence in an independent manner and to provide a scientific evaluation of potential impacts, as well as the likely efficacy of proposed mitigation measures.”

Sakhalin Energy CEO Ian Craig is confident the Panel will give his firm a clean bill of health. According to Craig, “Sakhalin Energy is determined to ensure that the Phase 2 project can be developed in line with our environmental standards and our commitment to mitigate potential impacts as far as is practicable.”

“Protection of the environment and species like the whales form part of our overall commitment to sustainable development,” he added.