Exxon's Valdez Oil Spill

The Exxon Valdez Oil Spill occurred on March 24, 1989, when an oil tanker named Exxon Valdez struck a reef in Prince William Sound, Alaska. This accident released approximately 11 million gallons of crude oil into the ocean, devastating local wildlife and ecosystems. The spill affected beaches, killed marine life, and harmed fishing industries, leading to extensive cleanup efforts and legal battles. It highlighted the environmental risks of oil transport and resulted in stricter regulations on oil drilling and shipping, as well as increased awareness about environmental protection.