In a significant move aimed at bolstering maritime safety and environmental protection, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has recommended that merchant ships steer clear of specific oil and gas exploration zones in the Santos Basin. This measure, proposed by Brazil, seeks to prevent accidents and mitigate the environmental risks associated with maritime traffic near these sensitive areas.
The recommendation was presented during the 11th session of the IMO’s Subcommittee on Navigation, Communications, and Search and Rescue. It now awaits the approval of the Maritime Safety Committee, with an anticipated enforcement date of July 1, 2025, applicable to all member states.
Captain Adriano Pires da Cruz, Brazil’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the IMO, highlighted the collaborative effort behind this initiative. The Brazilian Navy, Petrobras, the Brazilian Institute of Petroleum, the National Center for Transatlantic Navigation, and the National Union of Maritime Navigation Companies played crucial roles in its development. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the IMO Affairs Coordination Commission also supported the effort.
“Though it’s a recommendatory measure, its effectiveness is well-recognized, similar to existing measures in the Campos and EspÃrito Santo Basins,” said Captain Adriano. “For now, the Maritime Authority’s role will be to disseminate the new safety measure, monitor merchant traffic, and ensure compliance.”
The IMO’s recommendation stems from a comprehensive risk analysis by the classification society Det Norske Veritas (DNV) and an environmental impact assessment by Petrobras’ Research Center (CENPES). These studies identified significant collision risks between ships and exploration platforms, alongside potential environmental impacts from oil spills.
Currently, around 200 merchant ships traverse the Santos Basin monthly, navigating near 25 oil and gas exploration platforms supported by approximately 400 specialized vessels. The new recommendation will necessitate route adjustments for these ships to avoid demarcated areas, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.
This measure enhances the existing 500-meter safety perimeter established by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Given the Santos Basin platforms’ unique characteristics, operating in deep waters far from the coast, a safety zone of at least 2,500 meters has been recommended.
The IMO, a specialized United Nations agency overseeing maritime regulations since 1959, has 176 member states, including Brazil. The Brazilian Navy has actively represented the country in the IMO since 2000, contributing to key discussions and decisions.
This initiative marks a proactive step towards safeguarding both navigation and the marine environment in one of the world’s most critical oil and gas exploration regions. As global maritime operations adapt to these new guidelines, the anticipated benefits will be significant, promoting safer and more environmentally responsible maritime practices.
