Oil, one of the most important natural resources collected by man, is used for many purposes. However, when not handled properly this substance can become extremely harmful. This is certainly the case with oil involved in an oil spill like the tragic Gulf of Mexico oil spill that occurred in 2010. An oil spill can impact the wellbeing of many in a number of ways, but some of the most obvious effects are the effects that these incidents can have on the environment.
Environmental Impacts of Spills
When an oil spill occurs, whether it results from a damaged oil pipeline, oil rig, or oil tanker, there are likely to be many ways in which the environment is impacted. These include the following:
- The water affected will become covered in a layer of oil, and there will also be traces of the substance below the water's surface.
- Marine animals and fish will be negatively impacted by these changes in water conditions. Many will die in large quantities, which can affect the natural balance and order of that ecosystem.
- The plant life on the beaches and in the bayous impacted by the disaster will most likely suffer from destruction on a large scale. Habitats and breeding grounds for a great number of species and animals will be ruined, negatively impacting the wildlife of the region and its diversity.
Because the environment can be so greatly affected by an oil-related accident, it is easy to see how individuals and their health and livelihoods can also be harmed following this type of devastation.
For More Information
If you or someone you love has been harmed, physically or financially, from an oil spill, you may be eligible for compensation. To learn more about securing the compensation you need, visit the website of the oil spill lawsuit attorneys of Williams Kherkher today.
David S. Caldwell |
