Local heroes battle oil spill disaster amid ship wreck on Mauritius reef

Written by Hazel for Surf Actionism

Islanders are taking the battle into their own hands as they scramble together to stop more than a thousand tonnes of oil destroying wildlife off the Mauritian coast.

The crisis, declared an ‘environmental emergency’ by government, started after Japanese-owned bulk carrier MV Wakashio hit a coral reef, close to the important Blue Bay Marine Park reserve, on 25th July.

Just days later, gallons of oil leaked into the ocean as it broke apart in rough seas, leaving behind the beginning of an ecological disaster, the likes of which has possibly never been seen before on the popular tropical island.

Now, residents are doing everything they can to save their treasured island ecosystem – an ecosystem that is undeniably important, with thousands of unique species to its name.

From cutting off their own locks to act as sponges (because human hair will soak up oil and not water), to making booms from sugar cane leaves, plastic bottles and old stockings, their efforts demonstrate just how deep the impact will be felt across the island.

Resident surfer Jeremy Chan posted to Instagram to celebrate the community effort, describing how "...it’s been so amazing to see everyone putting hands to together to save the island… We are not expert but every hand counts and we are proud to be mauritian! Thanks to all the volunteers who’s helping day and night... One nation, one people".

Among the local efforts, a fundraiser by environmental island NGO Eco-Sud has also raised 17,357,300 Mauritian rupees (more than £330,000) to help with the growing costs of the local clean-up, as well fund efforts to monitor the ongoing impact in the future, run conservation projects and even support legal action if needed.

It’s as the group stated in a press release on Sunday 16th August that 7,000 gallons of oil remained on board the vessel and was at risk of spilling into the sea.

And, as islanders continue to mop up the spill, save oil-covered seabirds limping to shore and ferry baby turtles to the mainland, the full impact is still unfolding.

To support the ongoing Eco-Sud fundraiser, click here.