Greenpeace MENA urgently calls for action in response to confirmed reports of the sinking of the cargo ship "Rubymar" in the Red Sea. Believed to be carrying over 41,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate fertilizer the Rubymar wreckage presents an imminent danger to the delicate marine ecosystems in the area.

Julien Jreissati, Programme Director at Greenpeace MENA, expressed grave concern, stating, "Without immediate action, this situation could escalate into a major environmental crisis. As well as any further leaks of fuel oil from the engines, the sinking of the vessel could further breach the hull, allowing water to contact with the thousands of tonnes of fertilizer, which could then be released into the Red Sea and disrupt the balance of the marine ecosystems, triggering cascading effects throughout the food web. This disruption could have far-reaching consequences, affecting various species that depend on these ecosystems and, in turn, potentially impacting the very livelihoods of coastal communities. Immediate access to the shipwreck site is imperative for an expert response team to assess the situation and swiftly devise and implement an emergency plan."

About Greenpeace MENA:

Greenpeace MENA is a non profit completely independent - politically and financially organization. Established in 2018, we are one of the newest offices of the Greenpeace global network that consists of 27 independent national and regional organizations in over 55 countries as well as its co-ordinating body, Greenpeace International. The MENA region is our home. We work creatively and collaboratively to reduce the environmental, economic, and social impacts of climate disasters and push local and innovative solutions, empowering our communities to flourish and live in harmony with their environment.

For more information about this release:
You can reach out to:
Hiam Mardini - Media and Communications Manager – Greenpeace MENA
Email: Hmardini@greenpeace.org