VOICED: More than just oil threatens LouisianaÕs coast

The video discusses the critical role of coastal marshes in the Gulf of Mexico, particularly in protecting New Orleans from hurricanes and supporting the U.S. seafood and energy supply. It highlights the severe land loss in South Louisiana due to factors like levee construction, climate change, and oil and gas activities, including the BP oil spill. The video also covers the ongoing efforts and financial needs for wetland restoration, emphasizing the importance of federal support and the potential use of BP fines to fund these projects.

What role do the marshes in the Gulf of Mexico play in relation to New Orleans?

• They protect New Orleans from hurricanes.

• They increase the risk of hurricanes.

• They are a tourist attraction.

• They are a source of freshwater for New Orleans.

What major event highlighted the vulnerability of the wetlands?

• The construction of levees in the 1930s.

• The BP oil spill.

• The rise in sea levels.

• The building of energy pipelines.

What has been a significant cause of land loss in South Louisiana?

• Tourism development.

• The construction of levees.

• Natural erosion processes.

• Agricultural expansion.

How much of the wetland loss is attributed to oil and gas activity?

• 40 to 60%

• 20 to 30%

• 70 to 80%

• 10 to 20%

What is the estimated cost to repair the damage done to the wetlands since the 1930s?

• $90 billion

• $20 billion

• $200 billion

• $9 billion