Mexico Launches Risk Review for Controversial Ammonia Plant in Topolobampo

Mexico’s Secretary of the Environment and Natural Resources, Alicia Bárcenas Ibarra, has announced a joint risk assessment for a new ammonia production plant in Ohuira Bay, Topolobampo. The facility, operated by Gas y Petroquímicas de Occidente (GOP), is expected to produce up to 800,000 metric tons of ammonia each year. Its construction has recently faced opposition from environmentalists and Indigenous groups. The meeting to announce the assessment took place in Los Mochis. Bárcenas Ibarra, Indigenous community members, and the 'Not Here' collective were present. The assessment will include authorities, local residents, and collective members to evaluate the plant’s risks.

Four working groups will be formed to support discussions, review environmental concerns, and address service gaps in the Topolobampo Indigenous communities. These groups will officially begin their work next week.

GOP has already invested $1.6 billion in the project. Environmental and technical studies confirm the plant will not harm the area. The company also has a strong global record in safely producing ammonia, methanol, and fertilisers.

The plant has secured all required technical, environmental, and governmental approvals. This includes environmental impact assessments and public consultations with Indigenous communities in the region. The announcement follows protests against the plant’s construction. The joint assessment aims to address concerns through dialogue and detailed risk evaluation. The facility’s approvals and studies suggest it meets all regulatory and safety standards.