Maritime Accidents and Environmental Pollution - The X-Press Pearl Disaster: Causes, Consequences, and Lessons Learned

This book discusses the X-Press Pearl container vessel accident that occurred in May 2021 off the coast of Colombo, Sri Lanka, and its disastrous environmental and social consequences. It provides an in-depth understanding of the accident response, risk mitigation, investigation, and damage assessment activities, and offers insights into developing robust safety and sustainability management systems and safety cultures.

Format: Hardback
Length: 406 pages
Publication date: 29 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate details surrounding the tragic X-Press Pearl container vessel accident that occurred off the coast of Colombo, Sri Lanka, in May 2021. The vessel, carrying a vast consignment of chemicals and hazardous materials, resulted in a catastrophic environmental and social disaster that affected the region extensively. Through a series of case studies, accumulated knowledge, and firsthand experiences, the authors explore the accident response, risk mitigation, investigation, and damage assessment activities from the very onset of the incident. Their objective is to provide researchers and regulators with a deep understanding of the facts surrounding this unique marine chemical accident, enabling them to formulate necessary future regulations and develop robust safety and sustainability management systems.

The book is authored by authorities who played pivotal roles in the accident response and damage assessment team. It focuses on identifying plausible root causes, identifying pitfalls in accident response, and highlighting weaknesses in current regulatory and management protocols. By presenting in-depth insights into this tragic event, the book aims to assist policymakers in developing effective strategies to prevent similar disasters in the future.

The text is enriched with numerous case studies, accompanied by photographs and figures that serve as authentic evidence of the disaster's impact. These case studies vividly illustrate the response efforts, mitigation strategies, and the challenges faced by the authorities and stakeholders involved. The authors explain and discuss key research findings in a clear and concise manner, making the content accessible to a wide audience, including environmental management and policy creators, researchers, professionals, academics, and students specializing in environmental science, chemical engineering, technical safety and sustainability management, maritime, polymer, and ocean sciences.

Countries where maritime disasters pose significant risks are particularly interested in this book as it offers valuable insights and recommendations for improving safety and sustainability in the maritime industry. The authors emphasize the importance of proactive measures, robust regulations, and continuous improvement in safety culture to minimize the potential for such accidents. By learning from the X-Press Pearl incident, the global community can work towards a safer and more sustainable future for maritime operations.

In conclusion, this book is a crucial resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of the X-Press Pearl container vessel accident and its far-reaching consequences. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the incident, shedding light on the root causes, response efforts, and key research findings. By leveraging the expertise and experiences of the authors, readers can gain valuable insights into developing effective strategies for preventing maritime disasters and promoting safety and sustainability in the industry.

Weight: 940g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032315270