Locations Affected: Peru
An environmental emergency was declared by Peru’s government on 26 December in the northern coastal region due to an oil spill in the surrounding waters of the Pacific Ocean. The oil leak was detected on 21 December near Las Capullanas Beach during pre-shipment maneuvers by a vessel belonging to the state oil firm Petroperu at a terminal of the Talara refinery. Petroperu immediately suspended operations as a preventive measure.
Steps Taken After the Oil Spill
- According to a primary report by the Environmental Assessment and Oversight Agency (OEFA) — a Peruvian environmental watchdog — the oil spill has affected 10,000 square meters of seawater in Lobitos.
- Peru’s environment ministry has stated that the oil spill has impacted at least seven beaches and local wildlife. It has also prevented local fishermen from working.
- During the 90-day emergency imposed by the government, authorities plan to carry out recovery and remediation work to mitigate the contamination.
- Petroperu has deployed clean-up brigades and personnel since the start of the spill and stated that they are coordinating efforts with the fishermen’s union and local authorities to ensure the continuation of local economic and tourist activities.
- The OEFA has initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the spill.
Impact of the Oil Spill
As Lobitos is a region dependent on tourism and fishing, the oil spill can severely impact the local economy and quality of life for residents. Local authorities have also raised increasing concerns about the effects of the oil spill on marine biodiversity. The recent oil spill is one of many incidents in the region. The recurring incidents have raised questions about the safety measures implemented by oil companies and the need to strengthen environmental regulations. The incident may also lead to demonstrations by environmental groups against Petroperu and other oil companies operating in the region.
