Five Whales Died off Italy’s Southern Coast

At least five whales have died after a rare beaching off Italy’s southern coast. Experts say a massive beaching is extremely rare in the Mediterranean. It’s also an unusual time of year for whales to be in that area. Biologists say pollution or noise from naval activities could have confused the whales.

Nine whales initially beached themselves. Two managed to escape into deeper waters. Five have died and the other two are not expected to survive.

The whales measured up to 10 meters long and weighed several tons each. Italy’s coast guard says autopsies will be conducted.

Mining Company Pays $1.79 Billion Fine

In what is being called the nation’s largest environmental bankruptcy settlement, a mining company has paid a record $1.79 billion to settle hazardous waste pollution claims across 19 states.

The American Smelting and Refining Company or ASARCO is a 110-year-old copper company based in Tucson.
The company was accused off illegally burning hazardous waste instead of disposing of it properly. As a result, the government says, lead and other toxic materials polluted water and soil in many places.

The money from the settlement will be used to repair damage at the sites.

ASARCO filed for bankruptcy in 2005. The Bankruptcy court of the Southern Texas opened an auction that allowed the company to be bought out of bankruptcy. Because of the price of copper at the time, bids were high. Associate Attorney General Tom Perrelli says this gives the government full payment plus interest for allowed claims.