INPEX Recognized for Maret Islands Work with Top Environmental Award.

Tokyo, Japan, Apr 17, 2008 - (JCN) - INPEX Browse, Ltd., a subsidiary of INPEX Holdings Inc. <1605> received a major international award on April 14 for successfully minimising the environmental footprint of work on the Maret Islands, off the Kimberley coast.

INPEX used a BK117 helicopter and modified drilling rig to ensure its footprint disturbed less than 0.1 percent of the area. A traditional onshore drilling operation would have impacted on more than 10 percent of the islands.

INPEX was one of two producers judged worthy of the top environmental honour, awarded as part of the Australian Petroleum and Exploration Association's (APPEA's) annual conference being held in Perth from April 6-9.

APPEA Director, Industry Operations, Mark McCallum congratulated INPEX on its "truly innovative and dedicated approach to ensuring as small an environmental footprint as possible" during its recent geotechnical and environmental drilling operations on the Maret Islands.

"Clearly the INPEX culture places a strong emphasis on innovation that is protective of the environment and cultural heritage and are deserved winners of the exploration environment award," Mr. McCallum said.

Sean Kildare, General Manager External Affairs, Perth Office, INPEX Browse, Ltd said the award recognized the company's absolute commitment to exceeding the prescribed environmental standard wherever possible.

"If it's possible to reduce our impact on the environment at any level - be it via technology, expertise or just plain hard work - we will do it," Mr. Kildare said.

Mr. McCallum said this year's nominees had included projects from BHP Billiton Petroleum, Chevron Australia, ConocoPhillips, ExxonMobil, INPEX Browse, Nexus Energy, Origin Energy and Woodside Energy.

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