In 1989 the Exxon Valdez Oil spill occurred - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exxon_Valdez_oil_spill. - The accident resulted in the discharge of approximately 11 million gallons of oil (240,000 barrels), 20% of the cargo, into Prince William Sound.

The cause of incident was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board who identified five following factors as contributing to the grounding of the vessel: 1. The third mate failed to properly maneuver the vessel, possibly due to fatigue and excessive workload; 2. The master failed to provide navigation watch, possibly due to the impairment of alcohol; 3. Exxon Shipping Company failed to supervise the master and provide a rested and sufficient crew for the Exxon Valdez; 4. The U.S. Coast Guard failed to provide an effective vessel traffic system; 5. Effective pilot and escort services were lacking. The Board made a number of recommendations, such as changes to the work patterns of Exxon crew in order to address the causes of the accident.

For this assignment, please answer the following:

(1) Was Exxon at fault for causing the spill? Why or why not?

(2) What about the Coast Guard, how did they contribute to the accident?

(3) Why is protecting our environment important? What could have been done differently?