Over a week ago, a breach occurred in a pipeline for a refinery’s loading buoy. This resulted in over 40,000 gallons of oil spilling along the coast of Thailand’s Rayong Province. In addition, the oil has drifted ashore at Mae Ramphueng, a popular beach destination. Since then, the governor has declared the beach as a “disaster zone” and it is completely affecting the entire area around it. Because of this, Thailand’s Pollution Control Department is asking for the Star Petroleum company to pay for “every penny” of the cost to remediate the spill. Furthermore, the hope is now that more oil doesn’t spread to nearby beaches.
Reading this story, it is deeply disappointing that more of these oil spills are going on. Oil spills are so harmful to the ecosystems in these oceans as the wildlife succumb to thousands of deadly chemicals and pollutants. This is more than just a temporary ban of not going to the beach today as each oil spill is contributing more to hurting our planet. Even more so, not only do the chemicals in the oil affect the plants, animals, ph/salinity levels, but it also affects the air we breathe. It’s a good thing that Thailand’s Pollution Control Department is holding Star Petroleum accountable.
I think that Countries need to step up and take charge in the oil clean up as well as making sure oil doesn’t spill again. I also believe that if an oil spill does happen there need to be a severe punishment.
I absolutely agree with your concerns about the terrible effects of oil spills on ecosystems and the environment, and it is encouraging to see companies held accountable for such disasters. How do you think governments and companies might better collaborate to prevent future oil spills and lessen their environmental impact?