ANAPA, RUSSIA - An environmental crisis hit the coastal city of Anapa on December 15, 2023, following the sinking of two oil tankers, "Volgoneft 212" and "Volgoneft 239," in the Kerch Strait. This tragic event resulted in approximately 3,700 tons of oil spilling onto the Black Sea coastline, prompting immediate action from over 4,000 volunteers associated with the #MYVMESTE movement, alongside local authorities and rescue teams.
The oil spill extended 40 kilometers along the shoreline, resulting not only in destruction of pristine beaches but posing significant threats to local wildlife, including dolphins and seabirds. Volunteers quickly mobilized to mitigate the environmental disaster, using gloves, shovels, bags, and respirators to clean affected areas. Many were advised to bring warm clothing and waterproof shoes since nighttime temperatures dropped significantly on the region's coast.
One of the prominent figures coordinating relief efforts is Evgeny Vitischo, chairman of the Permanent Working Group on Ecology of the Human Rights Council for the Krasnodar Territory. Vitischo emphasized the urgency of their mission: “Our volunteers are washing the birds and redirecting them to the rehabilitation center for birds in Krasnodar.” With numerous oil-covered birds appearing along the coastline, prompt action was necessary to clean and rescue them before it was too late.
Cleanup efforts have already yielded notable results. By December 18, volunteers had searched over 29 kilometers of the coastline, establishing barriers to contain the spread of the oil at strategic points like Bugaz Spit, and successfully clearing away more than 12 tons of contaminated sand. Yet the operation remains challenging, complicated by adverse weather conditions and sporadic storms.
Andrey Kravchenko, mayor of Novorossiysk, highlighted the collaborative effort involved: “The situation is complicated, with wind and storm disrupting the rescue efforts. If additional help is needed, we are prepared to send more support from Novorossiysk.” Volunteers have amassed at various coordination points, including locations in nearby settlements, showcasing remarkable community resilience during this crisis.
While the cleanup is underway, the ecological ramifications are concerning. Dmitry Glazov, a researcher at the Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, noted the precarious situation for dolphins: “Pollution from petroleum products has affected the key habitat for dolphins along the Black Sea coast. It poses both risks of toxin accumulation through contaminated food sources and potential burns from exposure to oil spills.”
An expert perspective has also been provided by Pyotr Zavyalov, oceanologist at the Russian Academy of Sciences. Zavyalov explained the longer-term outlook for recovery, referencing past similar incidents: “I think it will recover by summer; there should be no acute pollution by then.” He compared the current situation to the 2007 tanker disaster, affirming the ecological resilience of the marine environment, albeit requiring continued remediation efforts for optimal recovery.
Efforts to assess and monitor the health of the ecosystem will remain incumbent on scientists and governmental agencies, ensuring not only immediate responses but also long-term recovery and sustainability of Anapa's coastal environment. The calling for volunteers remains strong, as local organizations urge residents and visitors alike to lend their support during this time.
While the current challenges are significant, the commitment to recovery holds promise for Anapa's future, ensuring its shores remain a thriving habitat and tourist haven come summer, restoring the natural beauty and vibrancy of the region.
