In the last few months millions of people from around the world have been drawn to what is happening in the Gulf of Mexico. In India, The Times of India published an article recently accusing BP of trying “to downplay the disaster.” This man-made disaster has generated interest in new technology and distaste in old habits. Yet writing a blog post on what is happening in the Gulf at this instant in time, pales in comparison to the widespread coverage notable channels and websites are providing. Hence this blog entry will seek to mesh what is known in the public domain in a manner that will surely be looked on as over simplistic.
From live television interviews, to Twitter accounts, a lot of information on the 2010 Oil Spill in the Gulf of Mexico is readily available. Excluding Wikipedia there are numerous sources providing updates on the current rate of progress. BP for example, has been providing daily statistics on their website detailing the amount of oil recovered. On July 13, 2010 the “total oil recovered was approx. 17,060 barrels”. Yet, issues surrounding the honesty of these statistics and BP in general, have arisen to the extent that yesterdays Miami Herald featured an article entitled “Now you don’t trust BP, but it’s too late” by Carl Hiaason. Regardless of varied opinions on who is really to blame and whether that blame should be laid on a company versus an individual, the status of the situation is as clear as mud. Even with daily reports, images, and countless statistics, the effects of the 2010 Oil Spill will be felt until they are countered by humans or nature.
Ultimately there are numerous sayings which are currently applicable. From “time will heal all wounds,” to “the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” Humanity has proven that its creativity knows no boundaries and the ability to create such sayings and proverbs exemplifies a level of understanding that should be cultured. As to whether it is time we shifted that creative focus towards the planet and sustainability - the answer is likely yes. I am hesitant to say that increased awareness towards the environment has been one positive result of the Oil Spill, and end this blog entry there. That would be ignoring all the pains felt by those whose business and/or way of life have been disrupted. In a previous blog entry I sought to raise awareness on the potential increased rate of seafood imports due to the pollution in the Gulf of Mexico. That issue is still relevant but more questions have been added to the stockpile.
How long will it take to restore the Gulf of Mexico to its condition prior to the Oil Spill?
How much will it cost to do so?
Will money be an issue that hinders environmental restoration?
And last but least - how can prevention be boosted to avoid further calamities of this nature?
In the time it has taken to write what you have read thus far The Salt Lake Tribune has reported that a plan to cap the well is not guaranteed to go ahead as planned “ after the federal government questioned whether it will make the leak worse.” This is but one example of how rapid and complex strategies are being established an altered in a final effort to cap the leak. As to whether capping the leaks will cap all consequences of the oil spill as of this date, the answer is almost certainly no but it will be a crucial step to minimize further action needed in long-term projects.
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