The Prestige Oil Spill occurred in November 2002 when the oil tanker Prestige sank off the coast of Galicia, Spain. The ship was carrying approximately 13,000 tons of heavy fuel oil, which began leaking into the Atlantic Ocean after the vessel suffered structural damage during a storm. This incident led to significant environmental damage, affecting marine life and coastal ecosystems. The spill had severe consequences for the local fishing industry and tourism, as the contaminated waters impacted the livelihoods of many residents. Cleanup efforts were extensive, involving local communities and environmental organizations, but the long-term effects on the region's ecology are still being studied.