Brazil’s Ibama agency’s staff has recommended denying authorization for Petrobras to drill in the environmentally sensitive Foz do Amazonas region. The decision is influenced by governmental pressure, notably from President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, citing delays and insufficient environmental protection measures by Petrobras. The final ruling will be made by Ibama’s President, following the agency’s previous rejection of the drilling request in May 2023 due to environmental concerns.
The technical staff at Brazil’s environmental agency, Ibama, has advised against granting Petrobras permission to commence drilling operations in the environmentally sensitive Foz do Amazonas region. This recommendation, provided to Reuters by two sources knowledgeable about the situation, emphasizes the agency’s commitment to safeguarding crucial ecosystems. A final ruling on this matter will be determined by Ibama’s President, Rodrigo Agostinho.
The decision is being influenced by the ongoing pressure from Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who has publicly criticized Ibama for its hesitance in issuing drilling licenses. He remarked that “Ibama is a government agency that seems to be against the government,” reflecting frustrations over licensing delays. According to sources, the license was denied in part due to insufficient modifications in Petrobras’ plans to protect local fauna in the event of an oil spill.
In May 2023, Ibama had previously rejected Petrobras’ request for an offshore drilling permit in the Foz do Amazonas area, citing significant environmental concerns. Although Petrobras appealed this denial, the agency has yet to issue a conclusive decision on the appeal. The proposed drilling site is located within Brazil’s Equatorial Margin, an area recognized as the nation’s most promising oil frontier, geologically similar to neighboring Guyana, where Exxon Mobil is actively exploring large oil fields.
The recommendation from Ibama’s technical staff highlights the ongoing tension between environmental protection efforts and governmental pressures to exploit natural resources. As the agency deliberates its final decision regarding Petrobras’ drilling operation, the situation underscores the delicate balance between economic interests and ecological preservation in Brazil. The forthcoming ruling will be pivotal in shaping the future of drilling activities in the Amazon region.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
