Ways That People Can Help With Oil Spills
Oil spills are disasters that can destroy the environment and the economy. Though the government and the oil industries have teams of experts that are called up for such a catastrophe, it is sometimes wise to know ways you yourself can help with oil spills.
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Volunteer
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Volunteering for an oil spill cleanup is one of the best things you can do. When you volunteer to work with a government or an environmental agency, you will be under the guidance of experts who have experience in the oil spills. They will give you guidance in how to help and provide you information that will provide not only instructions to clean up the right way but also how to do so and be safe at the same time. Going to the beach with a mop and bucket by yourself will not help, and without proper guidance you could be putting yourself into a health risk situation.
Donating
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If you can't volunteer in person, find an organization to donate to. There are a number of animal and wildlife rescue agencies that need money to help pay for the cleanup and care of birds, mammals and fish that are harmed because of the oil. They need money to buy soap to clean the animals and shelter and food for those animals that need rehabilitation or relocation. If you cannot find a local charity to take donations, there are many online venues that will allow you to donate electronically. Donations are tax-deductible in most situations, especially if the organization is a nonprofit.
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Cutting Your Hair
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An organization in San Francisco called Matter of Trust accepts hair, human or pet, for donations to fill nylon stockings to create oil booms. Hair has cells near the roots that absorb and trap oil. The organization will take private donations but is especially asking for hair from hair salons and pet-grooming businesses. The hair will be a natural solution for oil. Hair for oil is not a new concept. In 2006 the government of the Philippines asked its population to cut their hair to help soak up a 50,000-gallon oil tanker spill off the coast of their country.
Support Area Business
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The environment is not the only thing affected by oil spills; the economy is also hit hard in the area of an oil spill. Restaurants, hotels and other businesses lose money, and customers as tourists and locals stay out of the beaches that are touched by the oil. Support businesses by visiting the local areas. Go to restaurants or stay at the hotel. While you are supporting businesses at the spill site, you will also have a chance to make a difference in person. Ask the locals what you can do to help. They may not need you at large volunteers sites, but individuals and families could be in need of help also.
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References
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