A new case study has highlighted the important role Indigenous Guardians play in responding to toxic spills and accidents.
In February of 2021, a storage tank released over 7,000 Litres of diesel on to the shore of Rivers Inlet, in Wuikinuxv territory.
But, through a quick response, the Nation’s Guardian Watchmen were able to contain 60 percent of the spill within the first day.
They were joined by Guardians from the Heiltsuk Nation the next day, and together they were able to contain 90 percent of the spill by day 3.
Together they also prevented the spill from spreading to the ecologically sensitive Kilbella Bay.
Meanwhile, it took 3 days for provincial officers to arrive and lend assistance, compared to just one hour for the Guardians, and the Guardian’s response saved an estimated $20,000 over the provincial standard.
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