Deepwater Horizon Spill

Setting the scene

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill began April 20, 2010, when the offshore drilling rig exploded in the Gulf of Mexico, killing 11 workers and causing the largest marine oil spill in history. The well leaked 4.9 million barrels over 87 days before being capped July 15.

What happened

The spill devastated Gulf ecosystems, killing marine life and damaging fisheries. BP, the operator, paid $65 billion in cleanup and settlements. The disaster was caused by cost-cutting and safety failures.

Why it still matters

Deepwater Horizon led to a moratorium on offshore drilling and new safety regulations. It demonstrated the risks of deepwater drilling and corporate negligence. April 20, 2010, remains the worst environmental disaster in U.S. history.

Background

BP paid massive environmental damages.