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Cubatão Industrial Park
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Industrial site
The Cubatão Industrial Park, strategically located at the foot of the Serra do Mar in the state of São Paulo, is one of Brazil's most significant petrochemical and industrial complexes. Its development began in the 1950s with the construction of the Petrobras President Bernardes refinery, which served as a catalyst for the establishment of numerous chemical, fertilizer, and steel companies. Its proximity to the Port of Santos enables efficient logistics for both raw materials and finished products. In the 1980s, Cubatão gained notorious fame as one of the most polluted cities in the world, earning it the nickname 'Valley of Death.' However, thanks to an unprecedented environmental program and massive investments in filtration technologies, emissions were drastically reduced, and the local flora and fauna were restored. Today, Cubatão serves as an example of the transformation from heavy industry toward more sustainable practices. The complex comprises more than 20 major industries that contribute a substantial portion to Brazil's GDP and ensure the national supply of basic chemicals.
- Location: Brazil
- Top sights: Ponte dos Barreiros · Cruzeiro Quinhentista · Monumento de azulejos da Rodovia Anchieta
- Nearby: Santos (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 21 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 212 | 175 | 152 | 98 | 71 | 58 | 68 | 42 | 76 | 106 | 138 | 174 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Cubatão Industrial Park is a major center for chemical, petrochemical, and steel industries in Brazil. Strategically located near the Port of Santos, it supplies raw materials to national and international markets.
Visiting
Individual factories in the park are usually not open to the public as they are active industrial facilities. From surrounding main roads and the coast, the plants, pipelines, and tanks are visible from a distance.
Where to view it
Good viewpoints of the industrial park are the bridge over the Cubatão River and the elevated sections of Via Anchieta. From the slopes of the nearby Serra do Mar, one gets a panoramic view of the entire industrial area.
Local products
No products are sold directly to consumers in the park, but the town of Cubatão has shops selling plastic goods, chemicals, and metal parts. Nearby fishing villages offer fresh fish and seafood.
Active season
The industrial park operates year-round with continuous production in multiple shifts. Maintenance work is often carried out during the summer months, which may temporarily reduce activity.
Nearby
Combine a visit with a trip to the nearby Port of Santos, the largest port in Latin America. Beaches of Praia Grande and the historic city of Santos with its Football Museum are also worthwhile destinations.
Geography
Facts
- The President Bernardes Refinery (RPBC) commenced operations in 1955.
- The industrial park includes companies such as Usiminas, Yara, and Braskem.
- Following the 1992 UN Summit, Cubatão was honored as a 'Symbol of Ecological Recovery.'
- In the 1980s, air pollution was so severe that children were born with deformities.
- Over 90% of pollutant sources have been eliminated by control systems since 1984.
- The industrial area is directly connected to São Paulo via the Rodovia Anchieta highway.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Cubatão Industrial Park (11)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why was Cubatão previously known as the 'Valley of Death'?
Due to extreme air pollution in the 1980s, which has now been largely resolved through environmental programs.
What are the main industries in Cubatão?
Steel production (Usiminas), oil refining, and the chemical industry are the main sectors.
Is Cubatão near beaches?
It does not have beaches itself, but it is located right next to Santos and São Vicente on the coast.
Are there nature parks there?
Yes, the Serra do Mar State Park surrounds the city and has impressive hiking trails in the rainforest.
What is the economic role of Cubatão?
It is a strategic industrial point connecting the Port of Santos with the hinterland.
Cubatão Industrial Park: where is it located?
Cubatão Industrial Park is located in Brazil.
Cubatão Industrial Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ponte dos Barreiros, Cruzeiro Quinhentista, Monumento de azulejos da Rodovia Anchieta.
Cubatão Industrial Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Aug.
Cubatão Industrial Park: why is it worth visiting?
The Cubatão Industrial Park, strategically located at the foot of the Serra do Mar in the state of São Paulo, is one of Brazil's most significant petrochemical and industrial complexes.
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