The Japanese operator of a bulk carrier that struck a coral reef and cause a widespread oil spill off the coast of Mauritius pledged on Friday to pay at least $9.4 million to help fix the damage the spill caused.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) said the Mauritius Natural Environment Recovery Fund will be used for mangrove protection, coral reef recovery, protection of seabirds and rare species, and research by private and governmental groups.
The environmental disaster began on July 25 when the ship MV Wakashio ran ground off the coast of Mauritius, carrying 4,000 tonnes of fuel that began seeping into the island nation’s lagoon, polluting a protected wetlands area and a bird and wildlife sanctuary.
After the boat split in two, the larger piece was towed out to sea and sunk, but the smaller section remains stranded on the reef.
More than 1,000 tonnes of oil is believed to have leaked from the ship, with the rest siphoned out before it spilled.
MOL President Junichiro Ikeda apologized for the damage and said the financial contribution reflects the company’s commitment to fulfill its social responsibility.
“The accident has caused tremendous environmental damage to Mauritius. We naturally bear social responsibility,” Ikeda told reporters.
The Mauritius government has said it will seek compensation from both the boat’s operator and owner, Nagashiki Shipping, for “all losses and damages” caused by the spill and clean-up costs.
Nagashiki Shipping last month pledged to “sincerely” respond to requests for compensation.
(input from agencies)
