Chapter 4 - Exxon Valdez oil spill

Abstract

It is the poor management practices that have resulted in numerous disasters during crude oil transport operations. This chapter presents one case study, the Exxon Valdez oil spill. On 24 March 1989, the Exxon Valdez ran aground on a large but newly formed ice shelf in Prince William Sound. The accident spilled 11 million gallons of oil into the ocean. Over the next 3 days, oil spread across 1300 miles from Alaska to northern Washington, resulting in widespread damage to the ecosystem. The waves washed the oil 120 feet up the berm to upset inland habitats and seep into the gravel-covered beaches. In the wake of the disaster, 250,000 seabirds, 2800 otters, 300 harbor seals, 250 bald eagles, and countless species of fish washed up dead on the affected beaches. The world's largest estuary would remain permanently damaged by the technological disaster. The Exxon response generated critical media. Nonstop coverage spread news of the Valdez and its mother company around the world. Exxon provided ample news stories and the CEO appeared arrogant and silly to the world. The impact of Exxon Valdez extended beyond the courts. In 1990, the US legislature passed new legislation meant to prevent further technological disasters related to oil production, shipment, and refinery. The act called for maximum responsibility and increased corporate responsibility. However, enforcement of the act lasted only as long as public outcry over Exxon Valdez continued.