North Ecuador Oil Spill: 1,200 Barrels of Crude Harm Birds, Fish; Fishermen Will Likely Be Affected

Recent reports showed that at least 1,200 barrels of crude leak affected a famous beach in North Ecuador's coast, which could also affect birds, fish and fishermen in the area.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the leak, whether human error, sabotage, or mechanical error.

The first report noted that it could likely be human error.

Oil spill in North Ecudaor

According to Reuters' recent report, about 1,200 barrels of crude managed to leak into a famous beach in Northern Ecuador located near Las Palmas Beach.

The report added that the leak on Wednesday at Petroecuador's Esmeraldas Maritime happened after a tank reached and exceeded its capacity, resulting in the sudden spill near the beach.

Meanwhile, a report published on Phys.org and AFP explained that the leak was controlled, and Petroecuador immediately launched a cleanup in the affected waters.

(Photo : by CRISTINA VEGA RHOR/AFP via Getty Images)
Cleanup of the spill at the Coca river in Puerto Maderos Village (2022). The latest report said an oil spill occurred on a famous beach in North Ecuador's coast. At least 1,200 barrels of crude were reported to leak that could harm birds and fish. An investigation is on the way to determine the cause of the spil

Due to the leak, the report explained that some birds, fish and crabs could be affected and harmed.

Fishermen could likely suffer from the leak.

Furthermore, the report noted that Petroecuador would look into the incident and help the affected fishermen due to the unexpected spill.

According to Reuters' report, transportation manager Rafael Armendariz explained that not all the 1,200 barrels went into the pool, as they immediately controlled 90% of the leak impact on the sea.

Meanwhile, the authorities are expected to assess the full impact of the leak on aquatic animals near the area and possible sanctions.

Oil spill near the Coca River

In the previous Aljazeera report in January 2022, a major oil spill that impacted the Cayambe-Coca National Park's protected area and Coca River emerged in Eastern Ecuador.

The severe weather event unloaded heavy rains that resulted in mudslides, impacting the OCP Ecuador pipeline.

According to Ecuador's Environment Ministry, the major oil spill polluted the river, which could likely affect the water supplies of indigenous areas.

The oil spill could also affect the wildlife and communities that depend on the water.

Also Read: Oceanic Large Manta Ray Species Found on Ecuador's Coast, Research Shows

What are the impacts of oil spills?

Oil spills can become devastating in bodies of water and animal animals. It is considered harmful to animals and communities that rely on water supplies.

According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), oil spills can result in significant problems that result in water pollution.

NOAA explained that oil spills occur when ships refuel, pipeline break, drilling operations and sinking of oil tankers.

It becomes more dangerous to plants and nearby species. Oil can cover birds' wings, reducing the animal survival.

In terms of humans, the oil spill can harm one's health due to toxic compounds, especially when they consume contaminated fish.

Related Article: Scientists Call For Conservation of Sea Cows, Pillar Coral and Abalone Due to Threats of Extinction

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