More than 70,000 tons of contaminated sand due to the fuel spill caused by the sinking of two Russian oil tankers on December 15 have been removed from the coast of the Russian region of Krasnodar. In addition, 2,100 affected birds have been rescued from the disaster, as reported today by regional authorities.
Cleaning and Recovery Efforts
“During the past two weeks, colossal work has been carried out to eliminate the consequences of the beach contamination in Anapa and the Temryuk region. Over 70,000 tons of sand contaminated with fuel have been removed,” stated Igor Galas, the vice-governor of Krasnodar, as cited by the Interfax agency.
Russian authorities have warned that up to 200,000 tons of soil from the Russian coast of the Black Sea could become contaminated.
Rescue of Affected Birds
Russian experts and volunteers have rescued more than 2,100 birds affected by the fuel spill in the Black Sea.
Almost 1,500 were taken to rehabilitation centers, while those deemed healthy by veterinarians were released back into nature. The birds undergo mandatory tests to prevent avian flu contagion.
Disaster Context
Russian President Vladimir Putin labeled the sinking of the two ships as an “ecological disaster” and demanded measures to prevent an increase in pollution. Around 40% of the fuel carried by the tankers Volgoneft 212 and Volgoneft 239, equivalent to 9,200 tons, spilled into the sea.
The tankers, built over 50 years ago, sank during a storm near the Kerch Strait, which connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Azov.
Containment Measures and Future
There are five areas in the region providing assistance to rescued and affected birds due to oil contamination, with veterinarians conducting mandatory tests on all birds.
Furthermore, firebreaks have been set up and ravines are being cleaned, removing dry vegetation and garbage that fuel fires, to prevent future wildfires.
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