As a responsible member of the Ukrainian energy community, VIVA EXPLORATION is committed to achieving its exploration targets in an environmentally safe manner. The Company recognises the unique nature of the Dolyna Carpathian Region and would only undertake exploration in such a manner as would not damage or negatively impact this unique area.
The Company is committed to development in such a manner as will leave no long term impact on the landscape. The area of Dolyna has a long history of exploration dating back to the last century. The legacy of this exploration has been largely positive, using modern low disruption techniques we believe that this can only be improved upon.
The environmental impact of drilling can be measured in several ways: surface impact; hydrogeological; noise and waste disposal. VIVA EXPLORATION is committed to meeting or exceeding the requirements of both Ukrainian domestic legislation, and international best practice in its activities.
The Company is restricting itself to drilling in existing low intensity agricultural areas. The soil is usually removed before drilling and drilling is taking place on the relatively shallow bedrock. The soil is replaced following the conclusion of works and tested and if need be upgraded to ensure it has not lost any of its productive potential. Drilling sites should be located as far as possible from inhabited areas to minimize the noise levels experienced in communities. Prior to selecting equipment its noise “footprint” should be assessed and it is only used if it does not exceed accepted norms.
The high rain levels in the Carpathian foothills ensure an ample supply of water and shallow water table. Prior to commencing exploration works, these water bearing horizons are isolated to ensure there is no communication between the exploration works and drinking water for the Community. Water is also used in the process of drilling, and water is sourced from licensed providers. Finally, drilling fluids are treated after use and disposed according to existing regulations. The target formations have been explored in the past and fluid samples taken suggest that there is no communication between surface waters and the target formations. This gives the Company comfort that it is able to explore in these target formations without impacting on the environment or local communities.
VIVA EXPLORATION is committed to meeting or exceeding the requirements of both Ukrainian domestic legislation, and international best practice in the safety of its activities. We are committed to operate in a manner that does not jeopardise the safety of our workers at any time. Any incidents on the rig or on the road, which risks safety are reported to management immediately, regardless of whether an injury occurred.
In the area of our license the benefits of the legacy of exploration can still sometimes be found. The drillers who historically drilled in our area left a heritage of improved roads and bridges, some of the smaller bridges can still be found built of old drill string. Our team will continue this tradition that the only surface impact of exploration is improved infrastructure.
VIVA EXPLORATION understands that a right to explore and produce from the subsurface must be coupled with strong community relations on the surface. We enter a community development agreement with the local communities where we explore to ensure that our host communities share in the benefits of exploration. Exploration brings temporary surface disturbance, but leaves a lasting impact of better roads and communities.
The Company plans to include local people in the team and create new jobs. VIVA EXPLORATION would like to participate the development of locality and help to finance social projects.