'If they're alive, they've got a death sentence' | Environment

A local business owner angered and upset by images of oil-drenched birds in the Gulf of Mexico is sending his product south in hopes to save the victims swimming in crude oil.

Ben Busby-Collins, CEO of Ballard Organics, is contacting animal relief agencies in charge of cleaning oiled birds and animals in the wake of the spill.

"If they're alive, they've got a death sentence," Busby-Collins said after seeing images of oil-drenched birds.  

The Northwest soapmaker is donating thousands of bottles of non-toxic soap to the cause.

"What you put in your body is going into your bloodstream. It's the same with these animals that are being rescued," Busby-Collins said.

Ballard Organics also pitched its petroleum-free cleaner to BP, and while the shop hasn't received a purchase order, it hasn't been shot down.