Open dialogue

Nord Stream conducts an intensive dialogue with authorities, public organisations and private individuals. Nine countries are involved in the largest ever international consultation process under the Espoo Convention. More than 100 public hearings and meetings have been held to date.

Answering public concerns

The company takes public concerns seriously. Nord Stream analysed and addressed hundreds of public comments collected during international consultations. Authorities’ requests are being met by providing further information obtained during additional studies.

Transparency

Nord Stream is the most transparent infrastructure project in Europe. Newsletters, press releases and a website provide information in five languages to the public and media. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report will be made available in all nine languages of the Baltic Sea countries. The selection of all contractors is based on worldwide calls for tender.

Security of supply to Europe

Nord Stream will enhance Europe’s security of supply by delivering 25 percent of the additional import demand expected in 2030. The new route across the Baltic Sea diversifies gas supply routes from Russia to Europe and complements the existing ones, which alone are not sufficient.

Environmental safety

Nord Stream operates according to the highest international environmental standards. The pipeline will have a limited temporary impact during construction and hardly any noticeable impact during operation. In order to minimise potential environmental impact, Nord Stream has conducted the most comprehensive environmental study of the Baltic Sea.

Technical safety

Nord Stream’s objective is to make its pipeline the safest ever built. Safety is ensured by advanced technical planning, high-quality materials, involvement of renowned experts and certification by an independent institution (DNV). Comprehensive risk assessment simulates all dangers and minimises their occurrence to once every ten thousand years. Underwater pipelines are the safest means of transportation in the gas industry. Nord Stream has integrated the management of Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) into its overall Company Management System. 

Multicultural project

Nord Stream is a benchmark project for pan-European cooperations:

• Shareholders from Russia, Germany, the Netherlands and France;
• Nord Stream AG is composedof employees from 20 nations ; and,
• Operating with partners and contractors all over Europe.

With these factors reflecting its European dimension, the Nord Stream AG represents a truly multicultural project. 

EU-Russia energy cooperation

Nord Stream will connect the European gas pipeline network directly to vast gas resources in Russia, including the Shtokman field. Implementation of the project will signify an important milestone for strengthening Russian-EU energycooperation and interdependence. It will also strengthen the EU’s position in the global competition for energy resources.

Transboundary cooperation in environmental impact assessment

Nord Stream sets a new benchmark for cooperation in creating energy infrastructure between businesses, political institutions and non-governmental organisations. Nine countries cooperate to develop common standards for the environmental impact assessment.