A fiery collision in the North Sea has raised fears of an environmental disaster. Here’s what we know

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🗞️ Driving the news: A cargo ship, Solong, collided with the US military-chartered oil tanker Stena Immaculate in the North Sea, igniting a massive fire
• The crash, which occurred about 10 miles off the coast of Hull, led to a dramatic rescue operation, with one crew member presumed dead
• A criminal investigation is underway, and a man has been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter

🔭 The context: The Solong, flagged under Portugal, was carrying empty containers that had previously contained sodium cyanide, while the Stena Immaculate was transporting 220,000 barrels of jet fuel
• Experts are questioning how the crash occurred in broad daylight despite standard maritime navigation protocols
• The Solong remains ablaze and is drifting south, with authorities expecting it to sink

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Jet fuel spills have a lower environmental impact than crude oil, as they evaporate more quickly
• However, marine ecologists warn that the fire and fuel release could still harm local fish populations, seal breeding colonies, and wildlife
• Environmental groups are monitoring the situation closely to assess long-term damage

⏭️ What's next: Britain’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch has launched an inquiry into the cause of the collision Authorities are evaluating counter-pollution measures to mitigate potential ecological damage
• Meanwhile, maritime officials continue to monitor the structural integrity of both vessels

💬 One quote: “The fire is burning off this jet fuel, which is highly flammable on the surface of the sea. (This) is good for the marine environment (but) not necessarily for the smoke that’s produced.” — Matthew Schanck, emergency response expert

📈 One stat: 220,000 barrels of jet fuel were onboard the Stena Immaculate at the time of the collision

See here detailed sustainability performance of MF Shipping Group and Ocean Infinity

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