But with the help ofa guide like Dr Crump, subtle changes in the balanceofnature can be observed: with the limpet population practically wiped out by the oil, the particular seaweed they used to feed on was allowed to thrive, changing the look of the rocks.
Big technology like renewable energy, carbon sequestration and advances in aquaculture certainly have a major role in restoring the ocean and the planet to a healthy balance, but in many cases it's a matter of giving nature the space and time to do what it needs to do with a helping hand from all of us.
Environment Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk outlined a series of measures his department is considering to balance "the needs of humankind and the needs ofnature".
Biosphere reserves have lead to a new approach to conservation which requires not only consideration of the relationship between humans and nature within the protected areas ant their surrounding areas but also abalance to ensure sustainable socio-economic development demands.
It would be wrong for the court to turn a blind eye to the fact that the "struggle in Nigeria was for a good cause" and said it was important to "balance Okah's political intentions with the violent natureof his crimes".