Seawater pollution in Haifa Bay • Initial

(haipo) – An initial report was received by the Haifa system, according to which large oil slicks are visible in the seawater in the area of ​​the entrance to the Haifa Bay Port. Currently, there is no information about the extent of the pollution, or about the causes of its appearance. We will update further details from the authorized official authorities – the Ministry of Environmental Protection and the Association of Cities for Environmental Protection, who are currently examining the details of the incident.

As is known, marine pollution often occurs as a result of shipping accidents, leaks from industrial plants or deliberate oil releases. The pollution harms the diversity of flora and fauna in the marine ecosystem. The oil is easily absorbed by the marine environment and forms a fatty layer on the surface of the water that reduces light penetration and harms marine plants and animals.

Pollution is defined as a criminal offense, and there are severe sanctions against those who violate the law, including high fines, criminal sanctions, and civil liability for paying compensation for the damages caused. These fines can reach millions of shekels, depending on the level of pollution and the severity of the act.

The Ministry of Environmental Protection stated in response:

""The personnel of the Northern Station of the National Marine Environmental Protection Unit of the Ministry of Environmental Protection are in the dock area at the Haifa Bay Port. An initial inspection on the ground revealed that this is not an oil spill into the sea, but rather soot floating on the water. In cases of soot, this is most likely the result of an inefficient combustion process of fuel in the engines. The unit's personnel are on site and are working to locate the source. The ministry will continue to monitor and act in accordance with the findings and its authority."