Repsol on spill on the Peruvian coast: “There is little oil left to remove”

Repsol, the Spanish company that operates the La Pampilla SA Refinery (Relapasa), reported that “little hydrocarbon remains to be removed” after the spill of more than 11,000 barrels of oil on the Peruvian coast of Ventanilla, which occurred on January 15.

Through a statement, Repsol reported that, in recent days, more than 1,600 meters of absorbent pompoms have been installed on rocks, cliffs and near the shore, with the aim of “preventing the tide and wind from dirtying the sand on already clean beaches”.

after the Repsol oil spill

Likewise, it assures that, after “several days without detecting oil stains” in the sea, some boats, heavy machinery and containment barriers have begun to be demobilized. However, these will be kept as a reserve and ready for their mobilization in case the situation requires it.

“This week we are entering the final stage of cleaning the beaches. There is little hydrocarbon left to be removed, and it is basically accumulated in some rocky areas that are difficult to access.”, indicated the operator of La Pampilla.

In fact, Repsol states that, in this new phase, characterized by “more detailed work”, the work of experts such as Edward Owens, “a world leader in situations of this type”, is essential.

“Dr. Owens applies the SCAT methodology, an international coastal assessment technique that seeks to determine the best practices based on the characteristics of the terrain. The goal is to remove 100% of the hydrocarbon remains and set the milestone for the end of the cleaning stage,” the letter continues.

Repsol: 2,500 people cleaning

The operation organized by Repsol is made up of 56 companies and professionals of 17 nationalities. The company says it is allocating all the necessary resources for the cleanup and remediation of the areas affected by the spill, the support of the communities and the rescue of animals.

Among all these contracted companies are Lamor, Oil Spill Response Limited, ERM (Environmental Resources Management), Aiuká and the Peruvian scientist Marine Morikawa.

In parallel, Repsol keeps more than 2,500 people on the ground cleaning the sea and beaches.

“We do not want to stop thanking the workers, volunteers and the Armed Forces of Peru for all the support we are receiving in the recovery of the ecosystem,” he said. Jose Reyes, senior manager of Safety, Quality and Environment of the company.