Our approach to biodiversity

Addressing biodiversity issues early in projects

Before considering a new project or expansion of an existing operation, we first check whether the area has been identified as having high biodiversity value, in which case we follow our requirements for developing biodiversity action plans and engaging with key stakeholders.

We conduct impact assessments for any new major project or significant modification to an existing project. Biodiversity has been integrated into Shell's standard impact assessment process. This helps ensure it is taken into account both during investigations into new projects and in early decisions regarding project design. 

We also conduct baseline biodiversity surveys for new and existing projects. The extent of the survey will depend on the sensitivity of the environment and the potential impact the project could have on the environment.

Working with biodiversity experts

We are not biodiversity experts. To support global biodiversity conservation and reduce the biodiversity impacts from our operations, we work with – and learn from – more than 100 scientific and conservation organisations in 40 countries. This includes our biodiversity partnerships with major organisations such as Wetlands International and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

In 2008, the partnerships began research to find the best ways to conserve tundra ecosystems in the Arctic, to use wetlands along the flight paths of migratory birds; and to reduce the impacts of growing biofuels on biodiversity and local communities. During 2009, we expect these exploratory studies to generate concrete conservation projects on the ground. In 2009, we also signed a cooperative agreement with The Nature Conservancy.

• Read about our industry-first biodiversity standard
• Our best in sector ranking for biodiversity in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index.