Question.
What is oil pollution? What are its impacts on the Marine ecosystem? In what way is oil pollution particularly harmful for a country like India?
(UPSC 2023 General Studies Paper 3 (Main) Exam, Answer in 150 words)
Answer.
Oil pollution in the environment occurs when oil or oil-based products ( Petroleum, diesel, etc) are released into the environment mainly in water bodies, like oceans, seas, rivers, or lakes.
Oil pollution occurs generally through accidental spills, leakage from oil tankers, operational discharges, or illegal dumping.
Impacts of oil pollution on Marine Ecosystems:
Oil pollution poses severe threats to marine ecosystems. The following are the major impacts of oil pollution on Marine Ecosystems:
Prevents Photosynthesis:
Oil forms a physical coating on the surface of the water, which prevents sunlight penetration. This reduces the photosynthesis process, which affects the marine plants and phytoplankton, and disturbs the overall marine food chain.
Toxicity to Marine life:
Oil contains toxic components like hydrocarbon, these substances harm marine organisms and affect their growth and reproduction. These toxins damage the organs of marine animals and disrupt their reproductive capabilities.
Benthic Communities:
Oil can settle on the ocean floor, which harms benthic communities. Some communities like crabs and worms adversely affected by oil pollution.
The harmful impact of oil pollution on India:
Threat to Biodiversity:
India has an extensive coastline with diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, estuaries, and coral reefs. India heavily relies on oil imports, which poses a major threat to oil spills in the Coastal ecosystem.
For example, the Mumbai oil spill in 2011 made a serious impact on the coastal ecosystem.
Impact on Marine Fisheries:
India relies heavily on fisheries for food security and economic livelihood. Oil pollution can lead to declines in fish production, affecting the livelihood of coastal communities dependent on fishing.
Impact on Tourism:
India's coastal regions are major tourist destinations. Oil spills can harm the beauty of beaches and marine environments, impacting tourism and the associated economic activities.
In summary, oil pollution is very harmful to the environment and marine ecosystem. Enhanced awareness, community engagement, and international cooperation are key for mitigating the impact of oil pollution on marine ecosystems in a country like India.
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