Five years ago last week, the Deepwater Horizon oil rig exploded, killing 11 workers and spilling over 200 million gallons of crude oil into the ocean over the course of 87 days. The Gulf Coast still has not recovered – though most of the oil that covered the ocean has dissipated, tar balls and tar mats still wash up on beaches as a grim reminder of the tragedy. Yields from fishing spots have decreased significantly, and wildlife like dolphins and turtles suffer physical abnormalities like tumors due to the effects of the spill.
Effects of the BP Oil Spill Still Haunt the Gulf Coast
The prospects of Gulf recovery are now more optimistic than they were at the time of the spill, but given that the BP oil spill was the largest in history, there is little to compare it to in terms of expected recovery rate. Marine scientists note that migratory fish with short lifespans seem to be doing fine, while longer-lived fish show clear signs of the spill’s effects (including, among other symptoms, oil in their organs).
The spill also caused significant economic effects on the coastal region. Businesses that rely on marine life, like the seafood industry, still struggle. Tourism is recovering, but the impression of ruined oily beaches has already taken its toll on the hospitality industry.
The effects on humans are also still pervasive – the National Institute of Health has suggested a 20 to 30 percent rise in mental health issues in coastal residents. Anger, anxiety and depression issues – mostly stemming from income insecurity, a side effect of the spill’s economic impact – have all risen in the years since the disaster.
If the BP oil spill has affected your business, you should know that there is ongoing litigation against the company. Our firm has filed over 3,000 individual and business claims against BP, and the fight it not yet over. Contact our firm to learn more about how we can help you recoup some of the assets you’ve lost due to the spill’s economic effects.
Farrell & Patel – Florida Law Firm
Source: http://www.nbcnews.com/science/environment/five-years-after-bp-spill-questions-linger-gulf-n344906
