Work

An Unresolved Environmental Problem—Small-Scale Unattributable Marine Oil Spills in Musandam, Oman

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This article discusses unattributable small-scale marine oil spills, particularly focusing on their environmental and socio-economic impacts in Musandam, Oman. There is a research gap in the literature on unattributable small-scale marine oil spills that reflects the lack of attention paid to these minor yet frequent spills, whose perpetrators invariably escape detection and accountability. The research method combines a literature review with extensive fieldwork, including community mapping, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, to understand the extent, causes, and challenges of untraceable spills. The findings reveal significant ecological damage, economic losses for local fishers and tourism, and systemic issues of untraceability, limited enforcement, and inadequate compensation mechanisms. The article recommends establishing a regional compensation scheme, deploying advanced detection technologies, improving spill reporting, and fostering regional cooperation to enhance spill traceability, upgrade remediation techniques, and obtain redress for affected communities. These recommendations aim to inform policy actions that mitigate environmental risks and uphold environmental justice in the Arabian Gulf region.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su17177769

Authors: Amran Al-Kamzari, Tim Gray, Clare Fitzsimmons, J. Grant Burgess

Institution: Newcastle University

Language: English

Topic: Oil Spill Detection and Mitigation

Subfield: Pollution

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Life below water, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896