Tripoli: The Ministry of Environment of the Government of National Unity continues its rigorous monitoring of the environmental impacts following the fire incident at a gasoline fuel tank owned by the Brega Oil Marketing Company in Zawiya. For the second consecutive day, a team from the Environmental Emergency Management Department, in collaboration with the Zawiya West Environmental Affairs Monitoring Office, conducted a field visit to evaluate the repercussions of the fire and the measures implemented in response.
According to Libyan News Agency, the Ministry's official page reported that the team inspected the site of the incident, assessed the damage to the affected tank, and reviewed the actions taken to control the fire and secure the area. They also monitored the environmental conditions surrounding the site, focusing on emissions from the fuel combustion and their potential effects on air quality, the environment, and public health. Continuous environmental monitoring and preventive measures are being emphasized to mitigate any adverse impacts.
During the visit, a meeting was held with stakeholders to address the environmental challenges posed by the spill near the collection tanks. Discussions focused on urgent and safe solutions to prevent the spill from spreading to adjacent areas, which could harm wildlife, marine life, and natural resources. The meeting underscored the necessity of swiftly developing and implementing a plan to manage the spill and handle pollutants in line with environmental regulations. Ongoing monitoring efforts will ensure contaminants do not infiltrate soil, water, or marine environments.
This proactive approach aligns with the Minister of Environment's directives to maintain field operations, coordinate with relevant agencies, and monitor corrective and preventative actions until the situation is resolved. The Ministry aims to ensure that the necessary technical reports are submitted for a comprehensive understanding of the incident's environmental impact.
The Ministry of Environment acknowledged the efforts and cooperation of the National Safety Authority, the Security, Safety, and Environment Department of the National Oil Corporation, and the Health, Safety, and Environment Department of the Zawiya Oil Refining Company, along with the Brega Oil Marketing Company. The importance of continued collaboration to protect the environment and natural resources was emphasized as a priority.