As the world's population rises at a rapid rate of close to 80 million annually, there becomes an increasing demand for energy resources such as oil. In order to compensate, there are an increased amount of oil rigs in difficult to access areas which question the common good as we need the energy resources but also pose a potential threat to the environment. In relation to the Montara oil spill, the company associated are a Thai based company called PTTEP (PTT Exploration and Production Public Company). Due to the significant oil spill and the geographic location, this had a drastic effect on the operations of the company, the role of the Australian government and the livelihood and wellbeing of the people of West Timor. This essay will explore the three perspectives outlined and how this incident directly effected them. Furthermore, in light of the analysis of the perspectives and the relevant principles of human flourishing, we will be able to outline how the common good is best achieved.

As previously discussed, the Montara …show more content…
In comparison, PTTEP have played down the environmental significance of the oil spill by confirming there was no lasting negative impact on the regions biodiversity (PTTEP, The Montara Incident). It is because of this great divide in opinion and findings that this issue has great relevance to social justice and the common good. Social justice relates to human rights, equality and fairness among all people (FSG, Social Justice, 2014). In close relation is the common good which is sacrificing self interest in order to provide the basic human needs so all may truly flourish. Roberts (2012) has described this issue as a ''forgotten tragedy'' which has greatly effected the people of West Timor in terms of fishery production going down by a staggering 70% , which leads to detrimental economic,social and wellbeing