Oil spill in Peru

An oil spill occurred at Talara in the Piura region of Peru on 21 December.

The oil firm Petroperu spilled a crude oil shipment into the surrounding waters of the Pacific Ocean, causing serious environmental consequences. This accident puts the lives of various marine and economic species in the country at risk. It has not been confirmed how much crude was spilled into the sea, but Peru's environmental watchdog OEFA reports that the oil has affected approximately 10,000 square meters of surface seawater.

The environment ministry said it has affected at least seven beaches, as well as local wildlife. It has been reported that the oil spill has damaged coastal plants and animals, such as crabs, affecting local trade as fishermen are unable to work.

Petroperu has deployed clean-up brigades working together with the fishermen's union and local authorities.