Ambev ordered to pay fine for polluting Parnaíba River

The Federal Court of Piauí has ordered Companhia de Bebidas das Américas (Ambev) to pay R$ 750,000 in compensation for collective moral damages caused by the pollution of the Parnaíba River. The ruling follows a 2021 civil public action brought by the Federal Public Ministry (MPF).

Investigations, supported by Federal Police reports from 'Operação Rio Verde', revealed that the company discharged chemical-industrial waste into the river at levels exceeding legal limits. This included the use of a clandestine discharge point via a rainwater collection box, which contained high organic loads and elevated concentrations of metals such as zinc, manganese, iron, copper, and cadmium.

The pollution compromised water intake and led to the interruption of water supplies in Teresina on June 25-26 and July 2-3, 2013. While Ambev has since implemented corrective works at its treatment station and the irregularities have been addressed according to Conama parameters, the court maintained the requirement for financial compensation. The funds will be directed to the Fund for the Defense of Diffuse Rights.