EPA: Dispersant less risky than oil

The Environmental Protection Agency released its first report on the dispersant Corexit 9500, which BP has applied to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. The EPA concluded that the oil dispersant is less harmful than the oil spill after testing the dispersant on marine animals in a lab setting. EPA's assistant administrator for research and development, Paul Anastas, said in this crisis oil is the No. 1 public enemy. He said, however, that it's too early to tell the long-term impact. (Source: Washington Post, 06/30/10) The Deepwater Horizon exploded April 20, and oil has been gushing into the Gulf of Mexico ever since. A relief well is nearing its goal.