Brazil authorities investigate coastal pollution in Salvador and Florianópolis

Authorities in Brazil are investigating two separate environmental pollution incidents affecting coastal areas.

In Salvador, the Federal Police are investigating heavy metal contamination at São Tomé de Paripe Beach. Environmental analyses have identified toxic substances, including copper, iron, zinc, and arsenic, in marine organisms and sediments. The contamination is linked to the former Itapuã Terminal, where Gerdau operated for nearly 30 years. While Gerdau acknowledged the presence of contaminants, it attributed current responsibility to Intermarítima, the company that acquired the terminal. Inema has issued fines totaling R$ 70 million to both companies, and the Federal Police have requested the freezing of Gerdau’s assets to cover potential recovery costs. The situation affects approximately 1,200 local fishermen.

In Florianópolis, the Public Ministry of Santa Catarina has launched a civil inquiry into chronic pollution at Beira-Mar Norte beach. The investigation aims to determine the causes of poor water quality, noting that since 2022, only two water quality tests have shown positive results. The inquiry is examining the actions of Casan, the sanitation company, and the Florianópolis City Hall. The municipal government stated it is conducting inspections to identify illegal sewage connections to storm drains through its ‘Blitz Sanear’ program.