Ecopetrol, Colombia’s state-owned oil company, has been accused of significant pollution, with over 800 contaminated sites and continuous oil spills affecting local biodiversity. Whistleblower Andrés Olarte disclosed data suggesting concealment of pollution cases, while the company maintains it adheres to environmental regulations. Community members face threats for raising concerns about these environmental issues.
Colombia’s state-owned oil giant Ecopetrol has come under scrutiny for significant pollution violations, revealing over 800 contaminated sites from 1989 to 2018, with many cases unreported. Oil spills have been recurrent, and local fishing communities claim the pollution is damaging biodiversity in critical habitats near the Magdalena River.
Residents noted the negative impact of oil on wildlife, particularly endangered species like river turtles, manatees, and several fish types. The local fishing federation president reported fishing catch was tainted with an oily odor and visible contamination. Families reportedly witnessed oil contamination firsthand during communal fishing activities.
Whistleblower Andrés Olarte, who worked within the company and exposed internal pollution data, challenged Ecopetrol’s management. He alleged that the company attempted to conceal some pollution evidence from oversight bodies, indicating a lack of transparency in environmental practices.
Ecopetrol has denied allegations of pollution, asserting compliance with environmental regulations and effective waste management strategies. They claim that their reported pollution sites are being addressed, with a high percentage cleaned up since 2018.
Data from Colombia’s environmental regulator contradicts Ecopetrol’s claims of decreasing pollution incidents, showing continuing reports of oil spills in recent years. Local fishermen noted alarming declines in local fauna populations, though the exact causes remain unclear.
Olarte reported threats to his safety after leaving Ecopetrol, as did several local community members advocating against the company’s practices. Although Ecopetrol’s former CEO condemned such threats, the intertwining relationships between private security firms and former paramilitary groups raise concerns in protecting environmental advocates.
Despite challenges, Olarte continues to voice concerns over Ecopetrol’s practices, emphasizing the need for protecting both ecology and the local communities affected. Activists and community members assert that without action, both the environment and their livelihoods are at severe risk.
Ecopetrol faces serious allegations regarding environmental pollution and lack of transparency, backed by whistleblower information and local community testimonies. The contradiction between the company’s statements and the evidence of ongoing pollution calls into question their environmental stewardship. Ongoing threats against whistleblowers and activists highlight the dangers faced by those advocating for ecological preservation in Colombia. The situation underscores the urgent need for regulatory reforms and more stringent accountability mechanisms in the Colombian oil sector.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
