| Date posted 2009-09-29 |
Please protect Australia's whale and dolphins from oil spill |
| The leaking oil well in the Timor Sea is now a major environmental disaster, spanning at least 15,000km2 and threatening whales and dolphins. An independent survey to the edge of the 40km exclusion zone has confirmed the presence of whales and dolphins. This entire area is ecologically significant, as part of an ‘ocean super highway’ for migrating animals between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Some populations are known to migrate through this region on their way to South East Asian waters. At least 20 different species of whales and dolphins probably use the area, including sperm whales, common dolphins, pygmy blues and humpback whales. |
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Step 1: Please fill in your details (on the right) Step 2: Read the text and add your personalized message (please keep your language firm but polite) Step 3: Send! (and forward this link to friends, family, colleagues or anyone who you think will be concerned). |
| To: The Hon Peter Garrett AM, MP |
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The Hon Peter Garrett AM, MP
Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts PO Box 6022 Parliament House Canberra ACT 2600 Australia Dear Minster I am deeply concerned that the Australian Government does not seem to be treating the oil spill in the Timor Sea seriously. Australia’s marine areas are unique by world standards and we have high expectations that you will act swiftly to protect them from harm. In light of the independent survey that confirms dolphins have been exposed to this toxic spill, we are disturbed that the Australian Government seems to be turning a blind eye to the impacts this spill will have on wildlife, and in particular on the whale and dolphin populations that call this region home. We urge you to act now and to: 1. immediately freeze all new oil and gas explorations applications; 2. develop much stronger conditions over all oil and gas rig and shipping activities; and 3. identify and fully protect all cetacean critical habitats in a network of marine sanctuaries We expect more from Australia and we hope that you will now act immediately to protect those animals not yet affected and prevent this disaster from happening again. |
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