Approved by the Energy, Environment, and Water Policy Committee on March 30, 2021
Approved by the Public Policy and Practice Committee on May 4, 2021
Adopted by the Board of Direction on July 16, 2021

Policy

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) supports the design and operation of offshore facilities such as water supply, transportation and energy structures, and pipelines as important contributions to national economic development that are built in accordance with:

  • Sustainable use and development of offshore resources.
  • Regulatory control of offshore regions for the protection of public health, safety, and welfare and protection of the environment for all offshore development.
  • Incorporation of risk management in all aspects of sustainable offshore development to avoid catastrophic failure.
  • Partnering at all levels of government to adopt offshore development policies and planning guidelines.
  • Programs to consider offshore development that comply with these policies in a timely manner.
  • Site selection practices that consider economic and social equity to limit disproportionate impacts on historically disadvantaged communities. 

Issue

Offshore development projects are viable if the risk to public safety and the environment are adequately addressed through policies and standards addressing the planning, design, and construction of such facilities. Public opposition to offshore facilities development, as well as lengthy permitting and approval processes, may stop viable offshore projects from being considered or developed. Therefore, equitable consideration of community impact is essential for acceptance of offshore infrastructure. The impact of hurricanes, natural and manmade disasters, and emerging concern over climate change and its potential impact on ocean levels and coastal development reinforce the need for improved planning, practices, and regulations consistent with sustainable development of offshore resources.  

Delay in the approval of offshore projects that meet all policy and standard requirements could hinder or eliminate valuable projects that may provide access to valuable natural resources.

Rationale

Civil engineers play a critical role in mitigating the risks of offshore facilities development and in protecting public health, safety, welfare, and the environment by properly planning, designing, constructing, and operating these facilities. There is a continuing need for adequate and protective policies and standards for offshore facilities development. 

This policy has worldwide application
ASCE Policy Statement 533
First Approved 2010