Drilling involves generation of large amounts of waste. Its safe disposal is a burning problem. Initially, attention was focused on the harmful impact of waste from marine drilling installations. But then, a number of problems caused by off-shore drilling came into light. Drilling waste is a significant source of contamination of surface and underground waters. The author discusses the degradation of the natural environment caused at all stages of drilling activities, from siting a drilling facility, through drilling, to operation of a rig.