A ship collision in Singapore has caused a significant oil spill, blackening beaches and triggering an extensive cleanup.
Jennifer Hassan reports for The Washington Post.
In short:
- The Netherlands-flagged Vox Maxima struck a stationary Singaporean vessel, releasing around 400 metric tons of fuel oil.
- The spill spread to several southern Singapore areas, including Sentosa and East Coast Park, leading to beach closures and cleanup operations.
- Authorities are using dispersants, oil skimmers, and booms to contain the spill, with over 100 workers involved in the cleanup.
Why this matters:
Oil spills from ships can have devastating effects on local ecosystems, disrupting the intricate balance of marine and coastal environments. When oil is released into the ocean, it spreads quickly, forming a slick that can cover vast areas. This blanket of oil affects everything it touches, from the tiniest plankton to the largest marine mammals.
