Dead Zones in the Gulf of Mexico

Dead Zones in the Gulf of Mexico

• Area Change (1985-2013): A 440% increase in the area of dead zones was observed.

• Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone Severity: Evidence suggests the dead zone problem in the Gulf of Mexico is worsening.

• Nutrient Source: Intensive farming is a primary source of phosphorus and nitrogen in the Gulf of Mexico.

• Dead Zone Formation: Excessive nutrients from farming lead to algal blooms. Algae die, and bacteria decompose them. This process consumes oxygen, creating a zone where aquatic life cannot survive.

Socio-Economic Impacts of Dead Zones

• Economic Losses:
  • Reduced tourism due to pollution.
  • Increased healthcare costs for people impacted by food poisoning.
  • Suspension of recreational activities in areas with polluted coasts.

Alleviating Dead Zones

• Sustainable Farming Practices: Implementing practices like crop rotation, and reduced fertilizer usage can mitigate the problem.
• Sewage Treatment: Proper sewage treatment facilities to prevent untreated discharge.
• Intercropping: Planting different crops together to reduce fertilizer runoff

Oil Spills and Seabirds

• Feather Impacts: Oil absorbs onto feathers, increasing their weight, and affecting insulation, making it difficult for seabirds to fly.
• Temperature Regulation: Feathers help regulate birds' body temperatures. Oil disrupts this function, creating problems.
• Oil Consumption: Ingesting the oil can lead to health problems for sea birds.