The influence of the engineering and geological conditions of the Northern Caspian Sea on the geoecological risk of geological exploration within its water area

<jats:p>The article presents an analysis of the key engineering geological conditions of the North Caspian shelf and their impact on the increase of geoecological risks associated with geological exploration and hydrocarbon deposit de-velopment activities. A detailed analysis is provided of the formation and spatial distribution patterns of accumulative bodies within the seabed of the North Caspian Sea, as well as their influence on the potential for accumulation of technogenic pollution. The results of the study of the granulometric composition of soils are presented, along with confirmation of their local distribution within the reference site located in the waters of the Serene Caspian Sea. According to the sonar data of the seabed in the studied area, the presence and direction of bottom currents have been identified; these currents influence the spread of man-made pollutants. Based on data from side scan sonar, fluid outcrops and a significant number of seismoacoustic anomalies have been detected on the seabed of the Northern Caspian Sea, which indicates a high oil and gas potential of the sedimentary cover in this area. An analysis of the seismicity of the Northern Caspian region is presented, including the results of microseismic zoning and an assessment of the potential for soil liquefaction during seismic events, which affects the risk of emergency situations during geological exploration work. As a result of studying the information obtained from engineering geological surveys carried out within the Northern Caspian region, signs of widespread accumulation of free gas in the soil mass were detected; this gas increases the risks of emergency situations within the water area of the Northern Caspian. Based on the material reviewed, conclusions were drawn regarding the comprehensive impact of the studied natural engineering and geological factors and the technological parameters of geological exploration work on the risk of emergency situations.</jats:p>