Rijeka, 24 February 2026 – INA, in partnership with an international consortium led by Lamor and Litoclean, has successfully completed the first phase of the seabed remediation project beneath the Rijeka Refinery.
During first phase, the consortium drilled five pilot boreholes and conducted a comprehensive suite of additional analyses to thoroughly assess subsurface fluid migration dynamics. Core samples were analysed in detail, and the wells were surveyed using three different types of cameras to obtain an enhanced understanding of the geological characteristics of the subsurface.
Second phase, launched in mid-January, envisages the drilling of additional boreholes and the preparation of full project documentation for the hydraulic barrier system. The hydraulic barrier with induced depressions will consist of a series of boreholes installed along the shoreline beneath the refinery complex on the Urinj peninsula. By creating an artificial depression, the lowest hydraulic point in the subsurface – the system will enable controlled collection of fluids and prevent their migration toward the sea. This solution forms the structural backbone of the comprehensive marine protection programme. Third phase will include the installation of the required wastewater treatment equipment and the commencement of pumping operations.
Marking the completion of first phase of remediation project, Bojan Lončar, Manager of Maintenance Management at INA, stated: “Remediating historical contamination in complex geological conditions such as those at Urinj represents a highly demanding engineering undertaking. Our primary objective is to establish full control over fluid movement within the karst subsurface. Through the hydraulic barrier system, we will redirect flows toward controlled collection points, thereby permanently eliminating the risk of marine discharge. This is not merely a technical solution, but our long-term commitment to environmental stewardship and to enhancing the quality of life in the local community where we operate.”
The project is valued at EUR 6 million and is expected to be fully completed in 2027, permanently resolving the issue of historical subsurface contamination at the Rijeka Refinery. The project is being executed by a multidisciplinary team of leading experts from INA, the scientific community, and globally renowned companies.
In parallel with the development of the permanent solution, INA is implementing a range of short- and mid-term measures aimed at protecting the marine environment and preventing any immediate discharge. A total of 33 boreholes remains active for the extraction of residual hydrocarbons from the karst formation. Continuous offshore monitoring is in place, ensuring timely response if required. Regular inspections of storage tanks, associated equipment, drainage systems and stormwater infrastructure are ongoing. Remediation activities are being carried out in accordance with established programmes and plans. As an additionnal marine protection measure, more robust ocean barriers will be installed along the coastal area adjacent to the refinery at the earliest opportunity, following the issuance of all necessary permits by the competent authorities.
INA extends its appreciation to the local community for its cooperation and understanding. A continuous dialogue and exchange of views has been established through regular meetings of the joint working group.
About INA Group
INA Group plays a leading role in the Croatian oil business and holds a significant position in the region in oil and gas exploration and production, oil refining, and distribution of oil and petroleum products. The company consists of several subsidiaries wholly or partially owned by INA, d.d. The Group is headquartered in Zagreb, Croatia. In the field of oil and gas exploration and production, INA currently operates in Croatia and Egypt. Oil refining takes place at the Rijeka Refinery, while the Sisak industrial site is being transformed into a hub for sustainable alternative activities. The regional retail network includes more than 500 service stations in Croatia and neighbouring countries. INA Group is a member of the MOL Group.PR contact
Avenija Većeslava Holjevca 10, Zagreb
Phone: +385 1 6450 552 | Email: pr@ina.hr