Marine life versus energy security: Contesting offshore oil and gas seismic surveys along South Africa's Wild Coast

Abstract

In late 2021, protests occurred in South Africa against Shell's planned seismic surveys along the Wild Coast. Environmentalists have expressed concerns that these surveys could adversely affect marine life and harm fisheries and the ecological balance. Critics argued that Shell bypassed environmental assessments to gain permission for these surveys. Activists and protesters urged Shell and the government to halt the exploration to protect the Wild Coast and its marine life. Business owners in tourist areas were also worried about the potential impact on tourism. This topic became a national debate and gained significant attention from various media outlets. Shell and the Department of Minerals and Energy defended the exploration by stating that it would be sustainable and beneficial for the country's energy needs. The paper is a case study investigating offshore oil and gas exploration along the Wild Coast. Using the argumentative discourse analysis approach, the report aims to highlight the role of political science and international relations in deepening our understanding of the interaction between humans and marine and maritime resources.