Because of the coronavirus, oil consumption dropped for a short time this year, though we can expect that to pick up again as restrictions are increasingly lifted across the country. But in light of the recent Mauritius oil spill, we wanted to talk about how we, as individuals, can continue to limit our dependence on petroleum. Plus we have some resources on how to help mitigate the environmental disaster in Mauritius. 

Petroleum products are ubiquitous. It is very difficult to completely rid them from our daily use. However, there is a lot we can do to reduce our consumption in the hopes that more petroleum-free products and services are made available. And it is important that we do so, because as the ice melts in the arctic ocean, more channels for commercial shipping are being exploited which increases the risks of oil spills in a very sensitive ocean that is already facing many issues from climate change. 

REDUCE YOUR OIL CONSUMPTION

• Use less energy at home by adjusting your thermostat and turning off lights not in use
• Use alternate forms of transportation such as buses (wear a mask!), bikes, or walking
• Look into alternative energy, such as wind or solar power
• Purchase products produced locally to reduce the oil used to transport goods
• Reduce plastic (which is derived from petroleum) usage
  • Buy used!
• Purchase natural fiber clothing as synthetic fibers are often derived from petroleum
  • Buy used!
• Discontinue the use of scented products as many of the chemicals used to produce them are petrochemicals

WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP MAURITIUS?

• Donate to the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation
• Sign this petition calling for the United Nations to oversee the cleanup efforts
• Follow for more information: Fridays For Future Mauritius (@FffMauritius)
• Donate to this local nonprofit: Eco-Sud Ile Maurice – azir zordi pou dime
• Donate to this crowdfund: Mauritius Oil Spill Cleaning 2020 – MV WAKASHIO – CrowdFunding
• If you are worried about your donated money going to something other than the oil spill, just remember that Mauritius depends on the tourism industry which has been wiped out due to COVID and will likely take a while to recover as the damage to their ocean and reefs will take years to heal, if ever.