Abstract
Karachaganak Petroleum Operating B.V. (KPO) has implemented waste management process that maximizes waste reduction and waste reuse. Minimizing environmental impact was also a primary focus. This process incorporates waste minimization / segregation, oily water treatment, oil-based mud (OBM) drilled cuttings treatment and recycling of drilling muds and brines. KPO is now completing the central treatment site where it has deployed new equipment and which places it at the top of the international ladder as far as recycling, treatment and safe disposal of drilling fluids and drilling wastes are concerned. In arriving at this milestone KPO completed a 'Best Available Techniques' (BAT) review of drilling waste which is based on a review of worldwide handling and disposal techniques. This paper describes the current waste management practices established by KPO and the strategies identified by KPO for the final end point for the drilling wastes at the Karachaganak field in north-western part of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
