Ibama Fines Petrobras R$2.5 Million Over Amazon Mouth Drilling-Fluid Spill

Overview

• Ibama documented a discharge of 18.44 m³ of non‑aqueous drilling fluid from the NS-42 rig about 175 km off the Amapá coast on January 4.
• The agency says the mixture carries medium risk to human health and the aquatic ecosystem under its 2025 classification rule.
• Petrobras acknowledged the notice and maintains the product is biodegradable, non‑persistent, non‑bioaccumulative and non‑toxic.
• Drilling was cleared to restart this week after ANP ordered replacement of all riser‑joint seals and required proof of the work within five days of the final installation.
• Petrobras has 20 days from notification to pay the fine or present an administrative defense, while activists and indigenous organizations voice concern over the sensitive region.