South African energy company, Sasol, has decided to relinquish its exploration license in Blocks 16 and 19 offshore Mozambique, according to a press release.

Sasol undertook an evaluation of the exploration potential of the blocks and an assessment of the report of the pre-feasibility phase of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The decision was taken on environmental grounds after consultations with all relevant stakeholders, from government, tourism, fisheries, to academia. 

Sasol will relinquish Blocks 16 & 19 in their entirety back to the government of Mozambique. A withdrawal notification has been issued to the relevant Mozambican authorities.

According to the statement, Sustainability is at the core of Sasol’s business strategy, which is underpinned by its commitment to compliance with all environmental legislation and undertaking any exploration activity in an environmentally responsible manner.