Could LNG tankers endanger marine life?
LNG tankers are no different than any other ship or boat in the water when it comes to interactions with marine life. One significant difference may, however, exist between some boaters and LNG ship operators: LNG ships are not driven recklessly or with total disregard of marine life. At the EcoElectrica LNG facility, extra care is taken to avoid sea turtles and manatees, both of which are slow moving animals. In the case of the manatee, the depth and structure of the pier was established to ensure that a manatee could not be squished if it came between the pier and a docking vessel or under the LNG ship as it moved to the pier or out to sea. Turtle “spotters” are even onboard LNG ships at EcoElectrica to allow a change in course or slowing down of the LNG ship to avoid collision with the turtle. These requirements may seem extreme to some, but the LNG industry takes wildlife protection very seriously and always seeks to be a good environmental steward.
