PETRONAS Planting Tomorrow: Rigs-to-Reef Series 3 - D30's Transformation

Summary

The video highlights an expedition by Petronas and the Department of Fisheries to explore the D30 rig, decommissioned in 2017 and repurposed as an artificial reef. The initiative showcases the rapid transformation of the rig into a vibrant marine ecosystem, supporting biodiversity and revitalizing the local fishing industry. Through the Rigs to Reef program, the collaboration emphasizes environmental stewardship, economic sustainability, and community benefits, demonstrating how decommissioned structures can foster marine life while aligning with Petronas' commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Takeaways

• 🌊 Bintulu, located at the confluence of the Kima River, is known as the gateway to Sarawak, blending historical heritage with modernity.
• 🚤 A team from the Department of Fisheries and Petronas embarks on an expedition to the decommissioned D30 rig to document its transformation into an artificial reef.
• 🐠 The D30 rig was submerged in 2017 at a depth of 46 meters, aligning with Petronas' ESG strategy for sustainability and environmental conservation.
• 🏝️ The transformation of the D30 rig into a vibrant artificial reef supports marine biodiversity and minimizes environmental impact.
• 🔍 Divers explore the rig, revealing a thriving ecosystem where diverse fish species and corals have made it their home.
• ✨ In a short period, the rig has evolved from a decommissioned structure to a bustling underwater garden teeming with life.
• 👍 The success of the 'Rigs to Reef' program highlights the potential for repurposing offshore structures to benefit marine ecosystems.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The fishing community in Bintulu benefits from the thriving marine ecosystem, ensuring stable yields and economic growth.
• 📈 The increased fish population supports local markets and stimulates the production of related seafood products, enhancing consumer choices.
• 🤝 Ongoing collaboration between Petronas and the Department of Fisheries is crucial for the success of the 'Rigs to Reef' program, emphasizing environmental stewardship.

Q & A

What is the significance of Bintulu's location?

Bintulu is strategically located at the confluence of the Kima River, earning it the title of the gateway to the Sowak Heartland.

What is the main purpose of the expedition to the D30 rig?

The expedition aims to explore and document the transformation of the D30 rig, which was decommissioned and submerged to promote marine biodiversity.

What role does Petronas play in the sustainability journey of the D30 rig?

Petronas promotes responsible stewardship of natural resources as part of its broader Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy, contributing to marine ecosystem preservation.

How has the D30 rig transformed since its decommissioning?

Since its decommissioning, the D30 rig has evolved into a thriving artificial reef, supporting diverse marine life and showcasing the success of the rigs-to-reefs program.

What challenges do divers face during the expedition?

Divers must concentrate and maintain focus due to the limited dive time at depths where light diminishes and pressure intensifies.

What ecological benefits does the rigs-to-reefs program offer?

The program helps preserve marine ecosystems, support biodiversity, and minimize environmental impact by repurposing decommissioned structures into artificial reefs.

How does the local fishing industry benefit from the D30 rig?

The thriving marine ecosystem created by the D30 rig leads to abundant fish stocks, ensuring stable yields for local fishermen and supporting their families.

What economic impacts does the rigs-to-reefs initiative have on Bintulu's community?

The initiative stimulates the production of seafood-related products, enhances market diversity, and contributes to the economic growth of the community.

How is the success of the rigs-to-reefs program measured?

Success is measured not just in data but also in the satisfaction and smiles of the divers, reflecting the program's positive impact on marine life.

What future goals does Petronas have regarding sustainability?

Petronas aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 through sustainable practices and the continued transformation of decommissioned structures into artificial reefs.