Venezuela scientists propose environmental protections for Orinoco Oil Belt

Researchers from the Venezuelan Institute for Scientific Research (IVIC) have consolidated over two decades of technical data to guide environmentally responsible energy development in the Orinoco Oil Belt. The findings specifically highlight the vulnerability of the Junín Block, where sensitive ecosystems such as flooded forests and morichales—characterized by the Mauritia flexuosa palm—coexist with sparse savannas.

Dr. Saúl Flores, head of the IVIC Ecology, Environment, and Agriculture Laboratory, noted that these ecosystems serve as the primary source of fresh water for local communities, including San Diego de Cabrutica, Soledad, and Mapire. The research team is advocating for strict environmental regulations regarding the production and transport of coke to prevent pollutant dispersion from affecting soil and vegetation. The technical reports have been provided to the Venezuelan Institute of Technological Petroleum (Intevep) to assist in managing the impact of hydrocarbon extraction.