Manaus Styrene Leak Declared Contained as Industrial Zone Is Cleared to Resume

Overview

• A styrene tank at Innova’s Unit IV experienced an abnormal temperature rise that released vapors on Wednesday, July 15, triggering evacuations and an extended emergency response.
• Authorities recorded more than 550 medical attendances for respiratory and irritation symptoms after the leak and are investigating at least one death for a possible link to the exposure.
• A multi-agency committee reported 'emission zero' from the affected tank and allowed the Polo Industrial to resume activity while firefighters continue cooling the reservoir.
• Inspections found fissures in the containment basin and initial tests showed signs of styrene in nearby soil and streams, prompting roughly R$22.4 million in fines and ongoing environmental sampling.
• Forensics teams began technical and police inquiries on Monday and are examining a spontaneous reaction inside the tank as the leading hypothesis, with removal or decommissioning of the tank likely to take months.