Saturday, June 26, 2010

If all the pictures of boats in the sea don't help, look at this oil slicken beach







As we reach day 67 of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, here is another video to add to the evidence piling up of what is seemingly an imminent, large-scale environmental disaster (if you don't already consider it a disaster).

This YouTuber's video films Destin Beach in Florida on a typical summers day. What isn't typical about this beach is that oil covers the sand (and consequently those who walk on the sand) and has thoroughly infiltrated the water.

Not only does the beach look disgusting but it is frustrating and disheartening to see the actions of a few stupid, stupid people in the oil industry (*achoo* BP) affect so many on such a large scale. This is a family beach for crying out loud!

The video also demonstrates how far the oil spill has traveled. What was originally about 60km off the Louisiana coast (at the time of explosion) has now spread well over a 300km radius and continues to grow. Two states; Mississippi and Alabama separate Louisiana and Florida, but the spill knows no bounds- just like scientists and engineers still can't figure out a way to stop this man-made disaster.

It's easy to forget about what is happening on the other side of the globe when it doesn't directly effect you, but spare a thought for the almost helpless citizens of America whose lives have been impacted for the short, and possibly the long term.

Here's to hoping they find a fix soon- and learn from their mistakes (whoever 'they'-aka those responsible- are).

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