SmartGIS Project: A Web Application for Global Oil Spill Management

Abstract

SmartGIS is a web application based on a Continuous Improvement project focused on Oil Spill Management processes to perform a large-scale harmonization of procedure and strategies. The main scope was the development of an Oil Spill Best Practice which provides a guideline addressed to eni subsidiaries for oil spill preparedness and for the selection of the most suitable tactics and technologies for response and remediation. This is based on the habitat types present in each Country where eni operates. To reach this goal, the Habitat Mapping and Benchmarking activities were performed as intermediate deliverables. Habitat mapping is based on the mapping and classification of all the habitat types using certified reference datasets. Three marine and seven terrestrial habitats were identified. Benchmarking analysis provides a detailed overview over the current status and development trends of oil spill response and remediation tactics and technologies applied worldwide. They have then been categorized with respect to suitability for the various habitat types. A webGIS application was identified as the best solution to manage all the data and information acquired during the development of the project. The application runs wherever an internet connection is available and allows an effective remote support of the accidental oil spill scenario. For this reason the SmartGIS was launched with the development of an environmental analysis tool within the 3Ter Advanced Emergency System, already implemented in eni in case of emergency. The environmental analysis tool is characterised by different layers for habitats, countries, marine regions, active concessions and protected areas. In addition it can be supplemented by other information such as meteomarine data, nautical charts, bathymetry and vessel tracking as well as thickness and concentration of oil. This paper will illustrate how the data and information presented in the SmartGIS can be applied worldwide in case of an accidental oil spill, providing a effective contribution to handle the emergency situation.