North Caspian Operating

We continuously seek to improve our knowledge of the environment, in which we operate, and limit our impact on the Caspian Sea bioresources. - Could you elaborate on this please? Let me give you some examples: Starting from 2005, the Consortium has supported yearly scientific programmes intended to increase our understanding of the Caspian Seal. This year this work included a next annual seal survey to determine the number of pups born and the distribution of the breeding population. Satellite tracking was also used to record the movement of seals. The findings of the surveys helped us to develop additional measures to mitigate the impact of our ice-breakers on the seals. For example, Consortium runs aerial surveys of ice-breaking vessels' navigation routes to identify dense colonies. Aerial surveys data is then communicated to vessels coordination team for giving instructions to captains. In addition, there are trained seal watchers on board every vessel. The use of thermal imaging cameras is being tested for on-time monitoring of seals communities. Seal Watchers advise on seal concentrations and help captains to identify measures to mitigate seal disturbance. When approaching seal rookeries, ice-breaking vessels either slow down, stop or change route to avoid the seals and pups. The Caspian Sea is situated on migratory routes for many birds, many of them are included in the Red Data Book. Since 2000, our Consortium has made regular observations of bird species in Mangistau and Atyrau regions in order to better understand wintering activities, seasonal migration and nesting habitats. The information gathered allows us to study seasonal migration trends and various bird populations. The Caspian is home to five types of Sturgeon. They all are classified as 'endangered'. In 2011 we initiated a dedicated project focused on sturgeon that is being developed with the UNDP, Caspeco, the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation. The project evaluates the status and well-being of sturgeon spawning grounds along Volga and Ural and identifies priority actions for rehabilitation. The Consortium is proud of the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Master Plan for the Kazakhstan Sector of the Caspian Sea which accumulates 16 years of research and data gathering. The Master Plan is based on the best international coastal management practices and can be used to guide biodiversity protection activities. These efforts have already been praised by the United Nations Environment Programme, who noted that: "the amount of data and information collected over time as well as the way, in which this information has been analysed, organised and presented in the plan, is impressive." In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that we are determined to develop a world-class project that is designed and operated to high safety and environmental standards and aims to maximize socio-economic welfare and minimise any negative impacts.