Last week, a major oil pipeline off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, burst — and now thousands of dolphins, sea lions, and pelicans are drowning in oil slicks.
According to Terra Lawson-Remer of Avaaz in San Diego:
“The pipeline that burst lacked basic safety features, like an automatic shut-off valve. And Plains All American is one of the most reckless companies in the US, with over 175 documented violations in the past decade. They’ve been warned time and again, but did nothing.
…While our rocky shores are awash in oil and dead fish, Plains All American CEO Greg Armstrong raked in over $5 million compensation last year, and is guaranteed a $29 – $87 million golden parachute. These guys broke the law to make a quick buck.
But if we hold them accountable, we can prevent another catastrophe by putting oil company executives everywhere on notice that they can’t get away with these kinds of shady games on our watch.
These precious creatures are now drowning in oil because of the profiteering short cuts of the Plains All American, but we can hold the culprits accountable. “
In response, to protect marine life and the California coastline, Avaaz is petitioning California Attorney General Kamala Harris and local District Attorney Joyce Dudly to file civil and criminal charges against Plains All American and its leadership. The petition reads:
“We call on you to file civil and criminal charges against Plains All American and its senior leadership, for reckless and willful disregard of the law and public safety, causing the massive oil spill now contaminating Santa Barbara’s precious coastal waters. The Plains oil profiteers must be held accountable for their reprehensible actions.”
You can read the full text and sign the petition here: