Marine expert: Environment benefit analysis should be done in Guimaras shores
A marine biologist working for the International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation (ITOPF) said the second phase of the cleanup operation is more complicated than the first stage which is to remove the industrial fuel oil on the shoreline and affected areas.
Katharina Stanzel, senior technical adviser of the ITOPF said there should be "environment benefit analysis" before implementing any action on the ground. She said there should be a comprehensive study on what to do as they could not just scrape the sand, mangroves or any affected areas.
The ITOPF is a non-profit making organization, involved in all aspects of preparing for and responding to ship-source spills of oil and chemicals in the marine environment. It is based in London.
Stanzel said "you have to weigh the sand before scraping" the remaining bunker fuel. She, would not however comment on whether the process in cleaning up the island with the oil slick is an ideal thing to do while the M/T Solar 1 is still lying on the seabed. "I am not in the position to criticize anyone but I am here to fill in the gap between all the stakeholders, government and different groups."
As to date, she could say on what's the best for the island as they are still conducting a study on the area and possible remedy especially in helping the marginal fishermen.
She said she was primarily sent in Guimaras to provide a wide range of technical services after the island was hit by the worst oil spill ever recorded in the country. ITOFP responds to spill of oil and chemicals. ITOPF's small response team is at constant readiness to assist at marine spills anywhere in the world.
Stanzel said she works with the local group not only to provide assistance but at the same time learn should the same occurrence happen in other parts of the world. The technical assistance and recommendation made by the ITOFP is also used by the International Oil Pollution Compensation Fund
ITOPF's service is normally undertaken on behalf of their member tanker-owners or Associates (other ship owners) and their oil pollution insurers,normally one of the Protection and Indemnity Clubs or at the request of governments or international agencies such as the IOPCF. The ITOFP also provides services on damage assessment, contingency planning, training and information.
The ITOFP's capability in rendering technical assistance has long been acknowledged by the IOPCF. "We have worked with them in several claims in different countries," Stanzel said.