People in the Caribbean tolerate the transportation of toxic waste through our seas.
People should think of what could happen if one of these ships sank in our waters.
Chemical fears after tanker sinks
The tanker sunk after reporting a hole in its double hull
October 31, 2000
British Coastguards have met French officials to discuss the ongoing threat of pollution from a tanker which has sunk off the Channel Islands. The Italian-registered Ievoli Sun sank at 0800GMT on Tuesday about 12 miles (20 kilometres) north-west of Alderney but is believed to be intact on the sea bed.
It is carrying 4,000 tonnes of styrene which is insoluble in water, highly toxic and highly corrosive. The vessel is also carrying two 1,000 tonne cargoes of two less toxic chemicals.
Coastguards say there has been some very limited leaking of the cargo and a two mile exclusion zone has been set up around the vessel.
A French mine hunter has been sent to the area to survey the site of the wreck and is expected on scene on Wednesday morning.
Styrene is a known marine pollutant, and it is feared it could have a serious impact on sealife. The environmental group Greenpeace has warned of the potential for "a major disaster".
More on: Chemical fears after tanker sinks