The Oil Spill in the Gulf, Toxic Leftovers in Iraq and a Glimmer of Hope

The Gulf Oil Spill continues to dominate the news both here in the U.S. and abroad, and rightfully so... I can only hope that the seemingly small steps, decisions and concessions that have been made in the past week or so will turn into mighty leaps and bounds in coordinating cleanup efforts and holding BP accountable for ALL its' actions in this crisis. Read the latest developments from a business and economic perspective at Wall Street Journal Online.

Another story that I also find troubling is the London Time's report from Iraq:

"American troops going home from Iraq after seven painful years are leaving behind a legacy that is literally toxic. An investigation by The Times in five Iraqi provinces has found that hazardous material from US bases is being dumped locally rather than sent back to America, in clear breach of Pentagon rules."

This will continue to be reported on, as it should be, but American troops have not gone home yet.  I can only hope that the local agencies subcontracted to assist in the cleanup will find a long-term solution to the issues presented in the article.  Read the full text

No doubt both of these stories have the potential of landing on WorstPolluted.org's annual report of the worst polluted places around the world.

Now for that little glimmer of hope...take a moment to check out the interactive graphic provided by the Washington Post, chronicling one pelican's journey from rescued oil spill victim to recovery, or WorstPolluted's.  Check out: 12 Cases of Cleanup and Success - 2009.  Even when it goes wrong, we can strive to make it right again.