As the Vaca Muerta Oil Sur project progresses in Río Negro, a new concern arises regarding the environmental impacts of the South Energy project to install a floating gas liquefaction unit (FLNG) 4 to 6 kilometers off the coast.
This project includes a gas pipeline head and a land and underwater transport system to transfer natural gas to the floating unit, which will produce LNG for exportation.
Environmental impacts of the projects in Golfo San Matías
The Vaca Muerta Oil Sur Project will install two single point mooring systems to load oil onto exporting vessels, while the FLNG Project will install a vessel for gas liquefaction.
Both projects will have a significant impact on Golfo San Matías, one of the main breeding and reproduction areas of the southern right whale and a home to various species within the marine ecoregion of the Patagonian Shelf Great Marine Ecosystem.
Since 1999, Golfo San Matías was protected from hydrocarbon pollution under Law No. 3308. This protection was removed by the Río Negro legislature and replaced by Law No. 5594, allowing multiple infrastructure projects for hydrocarbon export.
Exclusive public hearing
On December 6, the Province of Río Negro organized a public hearing to evaluate the environmental impact study of the project led by South America Energy S.A.
The hearing was in-person and only open to residents of Río Negro, excluding key sectors of society that could be affected by these megaprojects and that represent fundamental voices in the defense of biodiversity in Golfo San Matías.
Main negative impacts
- Habitat alteration: Sediment resuspension deteriorating water quality.
- Acoustic pollution: Chronic stress in marine fauna and disruption of movements and migratory patterns.
- Light pollution: Affects circadian rhythms and migratory behaviors.
- Increased collision risks: Rise in maritime traffic.
- Hydrocarbon pollution: Toxicity, organic damage, and mortality affecting birds, sea lions, and filter-feeding whales.
The gas liquefaction process will raise the sea water temperature, affecting entire ecosystems, altering the life cycle of many species, eliminating essential organisms, and contributing to the proliferation of harmful algal blooms that impact human health and that of many wildlife species.
Protecting Golfo San Matías
Allowing these megaprojects would transform Golfo San Matías from a natural sanctuary and breeding area to a high-intensity port for large oil-carrying vessels. Protecting the gulf is essential to conserve a vital ecosystem hosting key species for the balance of marine biodiversity.
Every action matters to ensure that future generations can enjoy a healthy and functional ocean, where nature and communities coexist harmoniously, prioritizing life over short-term interests.
Source: https://ballenas.org.ar/
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