Subsidies for ecosystem-based management in an offshore oil and gas exploration area, Santos Basin, Brazil

Abstract

Ocean and Coastal ResearchThis special issue examines the latest discoveries from the interdisciplinary project, "Regional Characterization of the Santos Basin -(PCR-BS)," designed by the Brazilian oil company Petrobras as part of its environmental program initiatives. Future environmental management practices are threatened by lack of comprehensive oceanographic knowledge in offshore oil & gas regions. This concern inspired this special issue. The 13 articles here present data primarily gathered during the 2019 campaigns. The study collected physical, chemical, sedimentological, and biological data from both benthic and pelagic environments in the basin. The findings are classified into four categories: methodological aspects, hydrographic conditions, and pelagic and benthic ecosystems. The scientific research presented in this special issue represents an initial effort towards reconciling sustainable oil and gas exploration and production with the preservation of regional biodiversity and environmental health.