Safety & environment at the Dunkerque LNG terminal
Safety commitments
Safety First
At the Dunkerque LNG terminal, safety is not an option: it is an absolute priority, integrated into every stage of our activity.
The LNG terminal is a high-threshold SEVESO site. The site is subject to a prefectural operating permit.
The LNG used in the facilities is a non-toxic compound. The risks associated with LNG are mainly related to its cryogenic temperature and the flammability of its vapors. In order to control these risks, a set of technical and organizational measures are taken. The site is equipped with advanced technical devices to prevent leaks and avoid incidents (secure tanks, gas and fire detectors, emergency shutdown systems, fire networks). In the event of an incident, specialized and trained teams are on hand 24 hours a day to implement an emergency plan. This emergency plan is tested regularly.
Environmental commitments
The Dunkerque LNG terminal is committed to an environmental approach aimed at limiting global warming and its impact on natural resources.
Limiting global warming
The objective is to control CO2 and methane emissions from the facilities. For example, a CO2-free regasification solution was chosen, using 5% of the warm water from the Gravelines nuclear power plant. This measure saves up to 436,000 tons of CO2 per year.
Limiting the impact on natural resources
This commitment involves the ecological enhancement of the site's undeveloped areas. In addition, compensatory measures aim to safeguard the biodiversity of the site with:
- The development of a 20-hectare area for migratory birds in the municipality of Gravelines, known as the “Espace naturel sensible des Hems Saint-Pol” (Hems Saint-Pol Sensitive Natural Area);
- The restoration of bird habitats and the dune ecosystem with the creation of salt marshes that serve as feeding grounds for birds.
The LNG terminal also limits its impact on water resources. Since 2021, a rainwater recovery system has been in operation, reducing the LNG terminal's impact on drinking water resources.
Access to the site:
Access restrictions are defined by a prefectural decree. Access to the beach bordering the terminal is prohibited within approximately 300 meters of the terminal, and navigation within a radius of 300 meters around the pier and breakwaters is prohibited.