TITLE:
Challenges and Opportunities in VLFS Project Decommissioning
AUTHORS:
Romario de Carvalho Nunes, Thomas de Almeida Schroter, Natham Gabriel Franco, Ketyllyn Souza Oliveira, Thaiz da Silva Vescovi Chedid, Hirdan Katarina de Medeiros Costa, Marilin Mariano dos Santos, Edmilson Moutinho dos Santos
KEYWORDS:
Offshore Decommissioning, Sustainability, VLFS, Energy Transition, Platform Reuse
JOURNAL NAME:
Beijing Law Review,
Vol.16 No.4,
December
31,
2025
ABSTRACT: This article addresses the challenges and opportunities related to the decommissioning of offshore structures, focusing on Very Large Floating Structures (VLFS), considering technical, regulatory, environmental, and economic aspects, and evaluating the potential for sustainable reuse of these structures in the context of the energy transition and circular economy. A multidisciplinary review was conducted involving national and international regulations, offshore industry case studies, technological innovations applied to decommissioning, and environmental and socioeconomic analyses. The research included a survey of key removal technologies, an evaluation of decommissioning methods (total removal, partial removal, toppling, repurposing), and a study of environmental-governance practices, sustainability, and local social impacts. Decommissioning is a complex process structured around early planning, deactivation and removal of structures, material recycling, and environmental monitoring. Total-removal methods eliminate future environmental risks but entail high costs and operational impacts. Partial-removal and toppling methods are cost-effective alternatives but leave submerged debris whose environmental impact must be monitored. Repurposing VLFS emerges as a promising option, allowing structures to be converted into platforms for renewable energy, research, and logistics use, thereby promoting a circular economy and cutting emissions tied to material manufacturing and transport. Advanced technologies such as abrasive water-jets, underwater drones, and digital modelling enhance safety and reduce environmental impacts. Socio-environmental governance and public policy are essential to integrating sustainability, social responsibility, and industrial competitiveness. Sustainable decommissioning of VLFS should be treated as a strategic opportunity for the energy transition and for the sustainable development of the maritime industry. Sustainable decommissioning of VLFS should be viewed as a strategic opportunity for the energy transition and the sustainable development of the maritime industry. The incorporation of innovative and sustainable practices, coupled with effective governance and cooperation between public and private stakeholders, is crucial to maximizing environmental, social, and economic benefits, transforming VLFS into valuable assets beyond their productive lifespan, in alignment with global decarbonization and circular economy goals.