The pristine environment of Antarctica has not been spared these man-made disasters. Today the rusting overturned hulk still sits in Arthur Harbor. Fortunately, the Bahia Paraiso incident did not have a long term effect on the LTER project. The wreck's presence, however, serves as a warning to researchers and others about the uneasy co-existence of tourism and science in such a fragile environment.
Oil spills can impact the entire food chain.
Oil-coated birds whose feathers can no longer hold air or repel water, and furred ocean mammals such as seals, die from drowning, exhaustion and freezing. Oil-impregnated water and toxic components of the spill also affect the tiny creatures at the bottom of the food chain which sustain those at the top. Tell students their mission is to simulate an oil spill, keep the oil from spreading in the ocean, clean it up and figure out ways to save the seals and penguins. After completing the Activity, ask teams to report their results. Note that it can be difficult to keep the spill from spreading, clean it up, and save the sea animals, all at the same time.