The Project
Origin Energy operates the Australia Pacific LNG project—one of Australia’s largest integrated energy developments—spanning expansive gas fields and transmission infrastructure across Queensland. In preparation of future development of gas fields within their Petroleum Leases, Origin Energy regularly identify potential offset properties to acquit potential impacts to prescribed environmental matters (Matters of National Environmental Significance and Matters of State Environmental Significance).
Origin Energy engaged our Team to undertake desktop assessments and targeted ecological surveys within a number of properties in order to confirm the presence or likely presence of MNES and MSES and overall offset suitability.
Our Approach
e2m was engaged to undertake ecological surveys of various properties in order to identify potential offset areas for MNES and MSES applicable to Origin’s tenements. Field surveys comprised ground-truthing of vegetation and targeted surveys in accordance with Commonwealth and State survey guidelines. Desktop and field survey findings were summarised as part of property-specific Offset Suitability Reports identifying MNES and MSES areas potentially suitable for biodiversity offsets.
Key challenges associated with the Project included the co-ordination of multiple land access requirements and safety relating the remoteness of some properties, particularly in relation to nocturnal surveys.
Outcomes
e2m produced detailed suitability assessments that assist Origin Energy in strategic planning and decision-making with regards to offsets for future development packages. Despite the remoteness and logistical challenges, our team completed the assessments in a safe and timely manner.
