Russian tanker spill in Kerch Strait threatens marine life
Due to the militarization of the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov by Russia, an ecological disaster has unfolded. According to Greenpeace, on Sunday in the Kerch Strait, a disaster involving two tankers led to the release of thousands of tonnes of fuel oil into the water.
The Ukrainian branch of Greenpeace reported that on Sunday in the Kerch Strait, which connects both bodies of water, an accident involving two Russian tankers occurred. As a result of this incident, several thousand tonnes of fuel oil began leaking into the water.
The disaster took place in the Kerch Strait, where the tankers Volgoneft 212 and Volgoneft 239 split in half. These ships, built in the 1960s and 1970s, were reportedly in poor technical condition. Russian authorities confirmed the death of one sailor. Approximately 4,800 tonnes of fuel oil spilled into the waters. Additionally, other petroleum products reportedly leaked into the environment.
Greenpeace warns that the spill of oil and petroleum products could have serious consequences for the environment. The oil slick is moving northeast, and under the current weather conditions, its containment is extremely difficult. If it reaches the shore, the land will also become contaminated.
Impact on marine fauna
Dr. Paul Johnston from Greenpeace emphasizes that heavy petroleum products, such as fuel oil, have a very negative impact on marine fauna. The organization has also appealed for actions to minimize further leakage.
Greenpeace also reminds us that in 2007, a similar, though smaller, disaster occurred in the same location. At that time, 1,300 tonnes of fuel oil leaked into the environment, and its effects could be observed even a year later.
Greenpeace emphasizes the need for immediate action to protect the natural environment. The fuel oil spill threatens marine fauna and could long-termcontaminate the coastline. The organization appeals for international cooperation to prevent further regional ecological disasters.
