Author: Kristina Schönfeldt

Kristina Schönfeldt is a PhD candidate at the University of Bonn and a graduate research assistant at the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg. She is also a law clerk at the Higher Regional Court of Bamberg.

Germany’s position on decommissioning oil platforms in the North Sea: Brent Spar Revisited?

Published: 28 May 2020 Author: Kristina Schönfeldt

In spring 1995, the Brent Field – an oil and gas development area located 186 km north-east of the Shetland Islands in the North Sea and thus under the jurisdiction of the United Kingdom – gave rise to a heated public debate. Greenpeace activists from Germany protested against the sinking of the Brent Spar, an oil storage facility and tanker loading buoy in the Brent Field operated by the petroleum company Shell UK, fearing disastrous consequences for the marine environment. Germany and Iceland shared their concerns and formally objected to the disposal of Brent Spar at sea. (more…)

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Germany’s new Arctic policy guidelines

Published: 25 October 2019  Author: Kristina Schönfeldt  DOI: 10.17176/20220113-171542-0

The Arctic is an increasingly important region facing major challenges caused first and foremost by the effects of climate change. The fast-growing interest in its living and non-living resources, its attraction as a new tourist destination, and its use as a route for navigation also contribute to these challenges. The ongoing melting ice and milder temperatures makes this harsh and inhospitable region accessible and potentially prosperous. Therefore, the eight Arctic States have drawn more attention to the region. Moreover, several non-Arctic actors from Asia and Europe are also seeking to gain a seat at the table. Germany is one of them. (more…)

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