Marine Ministry launches community program to monitor fuel spill risk

The Marine Ministry announced a community‑based monitoring program aimed at detecting fuel spills before they reach sensitive reef areas. Ten local volunteers, including members of the Costa Mar Reef Monitoring Network, will receive training on visual identification of oil sheens and on using portable testing kits.

Participants will report observations through a dedicated online portal managed by the Federal Electoral Commission’s translation centre, allowing rapid response from the navy and environmental agencies. The Ministry expects the program to reduce response times by up to 30 percent and to involve coastal residents directly in protecting their marine environment.