New leaks on Bohai Bay oil platforms bring spill total to 2,500 barrels

ConocoPhillips (COP.NYSE) China reported new leaks on an oil platform it operates in cooperation with China National Offshore Oil Corp (CNOOC: CEO.NYSE, 0883.HK) near Bohai Bay in Northern China, state media reported. Leaks discovered in June and early August at the Penglai 19-3 oilfield have already leaked 2,500 barrels of oil, contaminating 4,250 square kilometers. The State Oceanic Administration (SOA) has criticized the company’s “inefficient” cleanup efforts and said it plans to sue ConocoPhilips over the leak. The level of pollution has gained attention for the leak from several government ministries who have opened an investigation into the causes and impact of the spill. Local fishermen have been seeking compensation for marine life deaths, but the company has said it is still investigating if there has been impact on fisheries. ConocoPhillips will take full responsibility as the oilfield operator, and has said it will provide its cleanup plan to the SOA, though without specifying a date.