What does the Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) cover in an Area of Responsibility (AOR)?

The Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) is designed specifically to provide valuable information regarding the sensitivity of different ecological areas to oil spills and other environmental hazards. It maps out areas that are particularly vulnerable, such as coastal habitats, wetlands, and other sensitive ecosystems. This is critically important in an Area of Responsibility (AOR) because understanding where these sensitive environmental areas are located enables responders to plan and implement effective strategies to protect them during an environmental incident.

By having detailed information about sensitive environmental resources, responders can prioritize their actions to minimize damage to these areas. This highlights why the focus of the ESI is on identifying and mapping sensitive environmental areas, making it essential for effective environmental response planning and execution. Other options, while relevant to various aspects of pollution response, do not encompass the primary purpose of the ESI itself.