What Happened?

On the 25th July, MV Wakashio – an oil container ship, becomes grounded letting loose over 1000 tonnes of oil which was on the ship. An oil spill like this produces major concerns over the surrounding environment as this once pristine coastline houses many unique animals with specific genetic material to this Indonesian island.

As a result, a major relief campaign was raised on and on Friday Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth declared a state of emergency.

The brave people of Mauritius have taken action as times becomes desperate. Suited in protective wear, many venture into the water to try and dish out much of the oil. Empty oil drums are used to scoop out the oil and a long ring of fabric and sugar cane has been made in order to stop the oil from moving and contain it to a certain area.

An appeal of help has been raised also whilst fears have been shown about worries the ship may break in two. A potential larger spill could occur which wold spill at least another 1000 tonnes of oil.

How does the oil harm the Environment?

Oil is extremely bad for the marine life because of the many ways it cayuses damage.

A few are listed:

• Marine life may ingest the oil which is poisonous and kill the animals.
• Wading/swimming through the water can cause physical harm (birds can no longer fly easily, oil may be ingested through gills)
• The oil disrupts the habitat: blocked sunlight for the producers on the sea floor.

Spills like these damage the ecosystems so need to be cleaned up quickly.

Here’s How You Can Help:

A Go Fund me page has started which Greta Thunberg has been recommended :Donate Here

However, there is a link overload as a result of the huge help.

Other people are cutting their hair and donating due to hair being used as part of the clean up efforts.