Environmental Risks and Effects!

By: Wayne Forbes /GTV Editor

February 14, 2026

Updates on Stakeholder Consultations and UOG's Survey Activities in Jamaica

Stakeholder Consultations

Following the October 2025 developments, formal stakeholder engagement processes launched in early November 2025, led by Jamaica's Ministry of Energy and Mining in partnership with UOG.

- Key Participants: Sessions included representatives from coastal communities in St. Thomas and Portland parishes, fishing associations, environmental NGOs like the Jamaica Environment Trust (JET), and tourism sector leaders.

- Focus Areas: Discussions centered on proposed spill response protocols, compensation frameworks for affected communities, and commitments to protect critical habitats such as the Morant Cays and Pedro Bank marine protected areas.

- Outcomes: UOG agreed to establish a community liaison office in Morant Bay and fund independent environmental monitoring. However, JET and other groups continue to push for a full environmental impact assessment (EIA) covering long-term climate effects, which the government has stated will be completed before any full-scale drilling begins.

UOG's Survey Results (Released December 2025)

The piston coring and geochemical survey conducted in late October-early November 2025 yielded preliminary data:

- Hydrocarbon Indicators: The survey confirmed the presence of thermogenic hydrocarbons in sediment samples, suggesting the basin has the potential to generate oil. However, no definitive evidence of commercial quantities was found.

- Geological Findings: Data identified complex fault systems in the area, leading UOG to revise its drilling plans to avoid high-risk zones. The company has also committed to additional seismic testing to better map subsurface structures.

- Environmental Baseline Data: The survey collected baseline information on water quality, marine life distribution, and coral reef health, which will be used to inform mitigation strategies if drilling proceeds.