The book traces the history of offshore drilling, its regulatory frameworks, and the technologies used. It dedicates sections to analyzing specific environmental impacts ranging from seabed habitats to coastal wetlands. Furthermore, it evaluates the effectiveness of current regulations and explores alternative energy futures, drawing connections between earth sciences, environmental policy, and economics. This analysis explores the direct effects of drilling and spills, combined with cumulative impacts like ocean acidification.
The book uses peer-reviewed scientific literature, government reports, and industry data, along with case studies of major oil spills, to offer a holistic view for policymakers, industry professionals, students, and anyone keen to understanding the environmental consequences tied to offshore drilling.