REDUCING THE IMPACT OF OIL SPILLS ON INLAND WATERWAYS: STRATEGIES FOR LOCALIZATION AND ELIMINATION OF POLLUTION

Abstract

Accidental spills of oil and oil products on inland waterways pose a significant environmental threat due to their long-term environmental impact and the complexity of their cleanup. The article discusses the main causes and consequences of such accidents, including technical failures, human factors, and insufficient response time. The author analyzes modern methods of assessing the degree of pollution of water bodies, the impact of physical and chemical properties of oil on the ecosystem and the peculiarities of oil slicks spreading in riverine conditions. Particular attention is paid to modern technologies for localization and elimination of pollution, including the use of innovative sorbents, mechanical barriers, biological methods and mathematical models for predicting the spread of oil. An algorithm for rapid response to accidents is proposed, based on the integration of the latest IT solutions for monitoring and managing the liquidation processes. In addition, the optimization of logistics operations for the rapid transportation of the necessary equipment to the accident site was investigated. The results of the study demonstrate the effectiveness of implementing innovative approaches to assessing and eliminating the consequences of emergency spills aimed at minimizing environmental damage and improving environmental safety. The findings can serve as a basis for improving existing regulations and strategies in the field of risk management on inland waterways. The article is aimed at scientists, ecologists, engineers and specialists in the field of water transport.