A recent collision between an oil tanker and a cargo ship in the North Sea has raised serious environmental concerns, particularly regarding potential pollution. The oil tanker ‘Solong’ and the cargo ship ‘Stena Immaculate’ were involved in the incident near Hull, with fears of toxic substances like kerosene and sodium cyanide being present. Experts highlight the risks to marine life and important habitats in the Humber estuary, prompting government assessments and pollution control measures.
Collision Raises Environmental Concerns in the North Sea
The recent collision on Monday, March 10, involving an oil tanker and a cargo ship, has sparked significant alarm regarding potential pollution in the North Sea. This incident, which occurred off the coast of Yorkshire, has prompted Greenpeace to voice its deep concerns over the ‘multiple toxic risks’ associated with the accident and the hazardous materials being transported by the vessels.
Details of the Incident and Potential Pollutants
The oil tanker, known as the ‘Solong’, collided with the cargo ship ‘Stena Immaculate’ while anchored approximately 16 km from Hull. Reports indicate that the ‘Solong’ was carrying an unspecified amount of alcohol at the time. Initial fears arose that the cargo ship was transporting sodium cyanide, a highly toxic substance harmful to marine life. However, the vessel’s owner, the German maritime company Ernst Russ, clarified that while four empty containers had once held this chemical, they were no longer a concern during the incident. The ‘Stena Immaculate’, on the other hand, was reportedly loaded with around 220,000 barrels of kerosene, an aviation fuel known to be toxic to aquatic organisms.
Experts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have noted that aquatic life exposed to jet fuel can suffer lethal consequences, although minor spills in open water may not always result in fish fatalities. Despite the toxicity of JET A-1, it is not classified as ‘persistent’ in marine environments, suggesting it could disperse faster than heavier fuels typically involved in oil spills. However, the flammability of kerosene complicates the situation, as emergency responders face challenges in managing the active fire.
Concerns extend beyond the immediate impact of the kerosene, as Greenpeace warns about other potential hazardous substances that may be released, particularly if heavy fuel oil is involved. Initial assessments indicate that one of the tanks on the ‘Stena Immaculate’ was damaged during the collision, raising questions about the environmental effects based on the type of fuel involved.
As for the ‘Solong’, the environmental impact remains uncertain due to the unknown status of its containers. Reports suggest that several of the ship’s containers are damaged, twisted, and partially burned, which could pose additional risks.
This incident is particularly alarming due to its location in the Humber estuary, a vital breeding ground for porpoises and important habitat for numerous bird species. Experts, including Tom Webb from the University of Sheffield, emphasize that chemical pollution can adversely affect birds and disrupt the marine food chain. The Humber serves as a crucial wintering site for threatened species, with up to 140,000 birds relying on the area for rest and sustenance.
With the collision triggering a pollution alert along England’s northeast coast, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the situation as ‘extremely concerning.’ Coastguards are currently conducting an assessment to determine necessary pollution control measures in response to this unprecedented incident.