Perceptions, Collection One: Ways We Can Help

Perceptions, Collection One 2023, highlights the harmful effects of human activity on wildlife through oil spills. Each design in this collection is an homage to the endangered wildlife impacted by the oil spills and below are ways in which we can help.

Oil spills are one of the most devastating human-made disasters that wreak havoc on our planet's ecosystems. These spills can cause widespread environmental damage and have a particularly devastating impact on our wildlife, particularly marine birds, sea turtles and mammals.

When oil spills occur, they can have a profound effect on the feathers of birds, causing them to lose their natural waterproofing and insulation properties. This leads to hypothermia and a loss of buoyancy, making it difficult for birds to swim and fly. Moreover, oil ingestion can cause internal damage, leading to a range of health problems, including organ failure and death.

Marine birds are especially vulnerable to the effects of oil spills due to their large size and unique features. Swans are particularly at risk because they depend on their feathers to maintain body temperature and to keep their wings and body dry. When their feathers are contaminated with oil, it can lead to rapid heat loss and severe health consequences. Pelicans, on the other hand, are particularly vulnerable because of their feeding habits. These birds are known to dive into the water to catch fish, exposing themselves to contaminated water and oil.

Find unexpected beauty in the natural world.

The devastating impact of oil spills on birds and other wildlife is a cause for concern, and it's crucial that we take steps to mitigate the damage. There are several ways that we can help:

• Volunteering with cleanup efforts and helping clean birds and affected habitats after a spill happens
• Donating to organisations involved in cleanup either through financial or material contributions or organising fundraising drives
• Joining organisations and related causes to raise awareness and taking part in active campaigns to stop the causes of oil pollution
• Avoiding unintentional contributions to pollution problems by keeping watercraft in peak condition without leaks and disposing of all oils properly
• Reporting any oiled birds or contaminants to local authorities immediately to minimise pollution and begin restoration efforts
• Working to live a greener lifestyle and using fewer petroleum resources, which will lessen the need for refined oil

To begin educating yourself, a helpful step is to investigate the resources listed below:

Documentaries

Deepwater Horizon In Their Own Words
The Great Invisible A documentary on the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion

Podcasts

The Aftermath The Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

Books

Deep Oil Spills by Steven Murawski
Oil Under Troubled Water by Bernard Collaery

How to help / Ways to donate

National Wildlife Federation
International Bird Rescue Research Center
Oxfam America
Matter of Trust
Oceana
Help Protect America’s Wildlife

Explore Perceptions: Collection One, 2023.