What will be the long-term effects of the dispersants BP is using to break up the oil?

It’s still too soon to fully understand the effects. BP is using a dispersant called Corexit 9500 to break up oil leaking into the Gulf since the explosion of the Deepwater Horizon oil platform. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is monitoring the toxicity of the dispersant and has directed BP to substantially reduce the amount of dispersant it is releasing into the Gulf. BP claims it has reduced its use of dispersant by more than 60 percent from its peak usage.

Tests of Corexit 9500 have shown it to be somewhat toxic to shrimp and generally less toxic to small fish than some other dispersants tested. It has not been shown to disrupt reproduction cycles in marine life, according to the EPA. Dispersants are generally less toxic than oil and can prevent some oil from fouling sensitive areas of the Gulf Coast. The dispersant biodegrade in a matter of weeks. Still, much more study is needed to understand the long-term effects of dispersants on marine life and on the Gulf Coast environment. EPA is continuing to study the effects of dispersants on the Gulf and to monitor BP's use of Corexit 9500.

The unprecedented harm of the BP spill will continue to affect property, business and the environment for years to come. The Oil Spill Task Force, sponsored by Arnold & Itkin LLP, coordinates the financial, legal and investigative resources needed to represent the claims of businesses and individuals whose livelihoods and property are threatened by the BP oil spill. If you would like to discuss your complaint, then please call877-398-4972. We focus on representing your financial interests in claims against BP.

Back to FAQ