The demand for energy resources is enhancing worldwide, offshore oil drilling is viewed by some as a lucrative solution to rising oil process. Offshore drilling is already being explored in several regions around the world, while offshore drilling may provide additional fuel for the world’s growing appetite for oil, there are several environmental impacts to consider. They include Oil Discharges/Spills wherein most oil spills take place when oil is being transported via tanker and not during actual offshore drilling. Drilling Fluid Discharges where in Drilling mud and cuttings can contain toxins and radioactive materials from underground which have to be handled carefully to prevent pollution of the outside environment. This paper will address an extensive coverage on the exploitation of Energy Resources, off shore and on shore drilling impact on marine environment and case laws.

Keywords: Oil Drilling, Marine Environment, Energy Resources, Drilling Muds, Offshore Drilling.