Peru declares environmental emergency after Petroperu oil spill

Investing.com -- An environmental emergency has been declared in Peru following an oil spill in the Pacific Ocean by state oil firm Petroperu. The company has not disclosed the volume of oil spilled but has deployed workers for cleanup operations.

Peru's environmental watchdog, OEFA, has released a preliminary report indicating that approximately 10,000 square meters of surface seawater have been affected by the spill. Petroperu has pledged to continue its cleanup efforts using crews, boats, and drones to manage and monitor the affected area.

Damage to coastal ecosystems has been reported by local authorities, who highlighted the harm to plants and marine animals, including crabs. The oil spill has also impacted local fishermen, who have been unable to work due to the contamination.

Ricardo Banca, the Mayor of Obitos Ward, has expressed concern over the potential impact on tourism in the area and has called on the responsible authorities to take decisive action.

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Source: Investing.com