Brazil's environmental authority, the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (Ibama), has approved Petrobras’ pre-operational assessment (APO) in block FZA-M-59 of the Foz do Amazonas basin. 

Petrobras conducted the APO in August, which included an emergency response simulation to evaluate its readiness in the event of an oil spill.  

This approval is part of the final stage in the environmental licensing process for the deep-water block in Amapá. 

However, Ibama has called for adjustments to Petrobras' wildlife protection plan to ensure it aligns with regional requirements. 

Petrobras has agreed to revise this plan, according to Ibama's feedback, and intends to submit the updated version by 26 September. 

Ibama is expected to grant the operating licence once its technical team confirms the execution of requested improvements and corrections. 

Ibama, in its statement, said: “Taking into account the observations recorded by the team of evaluators, the robustness of the structure presented, as well as the unprecedented nature of the activity carried out, marked by relevant logistical challenges, the size of the structure activated and the breadth of the analysis aspects, the pre-operational assessment of Block FZA-59 is considered approved.” 

According to Reuters’ report, the exercise involved more than 400 personnel and used logistical resources such as vessels and helicopters, and a drilling rig was placed at the proposed drilling site. 

The region surrounding the mouth of the Amazon is regarded as Petrobras' most promising oil frontier, sharing geological characteristics with neighbouring Guyana, where ExxonMobil is actively developing substantial oilfields. 

The oil industry is optimistic about the potential for discovering significant oil and gas reserves in this area, which is part of Brazil's Equatorial Margin. 

Recently, Petrobras acquired a 27.5% stake in Block 4 in São Tomé and Príncipe, Africa.  

With this acquisition, Petrobras joined a consortium comprising Shell, the operator with a 30% stake, Galp with 27.5% and ANP-STP holding 15%.