Insitubränning

Insitubränning, or in situ burning, is a marine oil spill response technique in which oil that has formed a surface slick is ignited and burned on site within a controlled burn area. The primary aim is to rapidly reduce the volume of surface oil and limit exposure to shoreline, wildlife, and other sensitive resources.

The method requires favorable conditions and a sufficiently cohesive, surface-bound oil layer. A containment perimeter or burn box is established with barriers such as booms to keep the oil contained. Ignition is performed with specialized devices or remote ignition systems, and the burn is monitored throughout. Burns are typically considered only when weather, sea state, oil type, and slick thickness are suitable, and when other response options are not feasible. The operation may be short or extend for several hours, and it is halted if conditions deteriorate or if the oil is too dispersed or emulsified to burn effectively.

Effectiveness and environmental considerations vary. In suitable cases, in situ burning can remove a substantial portion of the surface oil, reducing the amount available for shoreline contamination and harming wildlife. However, it produces smoke and air emissions, including particulates and volatile organic compounds, and can leave solid residues such as char and ash. It is not appropriate for all spills, particularly where the oil is dispersed, emulsified, too dispersed over a large area, or near sensitive habitats.

Regulatory and operational context varies by country. In situ burning is typically governed by marine oil spill response plans and requires authorization from authorities. It is usually one option within a broader toolkit that also includes skimming, chemical dispersants, and physical containment.