Survey Confirms Offshore Bioconstructions Remain Healthy

Once the offshore pipeline was laid, between March and May 2020, the bioconstructions were brought back to their original locations and installed on top of the pipeline or on the seabed. 

As documented in the video below, activities were carried out by specialised divers and coordinated by biologists in real time.

One year later, TAP continues to monitor the bioconstructions. During June and July 2021, specialised TAP teams carried out a thorough survey to verify the status of the bioconstructions. This activity was undertaken in line with the environmental monitoring plan agreed with the Italian authorities.

The surveys were carried out using video and photographic recordings performed by a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). Almost 6,500 photos were taken, aiming to document the status of the bioconstructions, the improvement in the species which were moved back and the level of bio-organism settlement on the pipeline, both in terms of fish species and other organisms and habitats present along the pipeline’s offshore route.

Preliminary assessments conducted after the monitoring campaign demonstrated that the biological state of the bioconstructions was healthy and showed no signs of deterioration after they were brought back to their original locations.

TAP is committed to monitoring the bioconstructions for the next 10 years, until 2031. Specialised teams will track the evolution and the status of the bioconstructions, as well as the accumulation of any materials resulting from human activity, to ensure the quality of the habitat is in line with environmental standards.