EPA Reverses Course on Dispersant Use in Oil Spill Response

Strategic Insights -

The Environmental Protection Agency has reversed its earlier decision to halt the use of the dispersant Corexit in the Gulf of Mexico oil spill response, citing concerns about the availability of safer alternatives. In an interview with All Things Considered, EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson explained that the agency has ordered BP to reduce its use of Corexit, but will continue to use it in the meantime. Jackson acknowledged that the long-term effects of Corexit are not fully understood, particularly in the quantities and depths involved in this spill.

Key Takeaways:

  • The EPA has ordered BP to reduce its use of the dispersant Corexit in the Gulf of Mexico oil spill response.
  • The agency has reversed its earlier decision to halt the use of Corexit, citing concerns about the availability of safer alternatives.
  • EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson acknowledged that the long-term effects of Corexit are not fully understood, particularly in the quantities and depths involved in this spill.
  • The EPA is conducting its own testing on Corexit, but has not yet identified a safer alternative.
  • The use of Corexit in this spill is unprecedented, with approximately 1.8 million gallons of oil released and 36 days of dispersant use.

*Jackson stated that the EPA is monitoring the situation closely and has not seen any toxic effects from the Corexit use so far.

  • The EPA is engaging with BP to identify alternative dispersants and reduce the amount of chemicals used in the response.
  • The administration has been engaged in the response efforts since day one, but acknowledges frustration with the lack of progress and decision-making.

Statistics:

  • 1.8 million gallons of oil released into the Gulf of Mexico.
  • 36 days of dispersant use, with approximately 70,000 gallons per day.
  • Corexit has been used at unprecedented depths in this spill.
  • The EPA is conducting its own testing on Corexit.
  • 70,000 gallons of Corexit used per day.
  • Approximately 1.8 million gallons of oil released.

Sources:

  • NPR News, All Things Considered
  • EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson