Environmental Management in Offshore Decommissioning: Lessons from FPSO Fluminense Sail Away in Bijupira-Salema

Abstract The decommissioning of the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) unit Fluminense and the deepwater subsea oilfields Bijupira and Salema (BJSA) posed significant environmental challenges, necessitating specific planning to mitigate risks and impacts. Located in a critical habitat area with deep-water coral banks, the operation also had to address the hull contamination by the invasive sun coral species. During the disconnection and towing of the FPSO, seven vessels supported the operation, adhering to Brazilian environmental regulations and assisted in the removal of risers and moorings. All operations were preceded by thorough environmental impact and risk assessments, which were reviewed and approved by the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA). Mitigation measures were implemented for identified environmental impacts, and environmental key performance indicators, including greenhouse gas emissions, were tracked. This paper details the studies and environmental projects developed and executed specifically for this decommissioning effort. By presenting the BJSA and Fluminense case study as a positive example, this paper aims to contribute to the development of future environmentally responsible decommissioning practices in the offshore oil and gas industry.