EPA wants less toxic dispersant

The Environmental Protection Agency told BP late Wednesday that the company has 24 hours to pick a less toxic form of chemical dispersants to break up its oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, according to government sources familiar with the decision. It must apply the new form of dispersants within 72 hours of submitting the list of alternatives. The move suggests federal officials are concerned that the unprecedented use of dispersants could pose a significant threat to the Gulf of Mexico's marine life. An announcement is expected later today. (Source: Washington Post, 05/20/10)