Use dispersants to break up the oil and speed its natural biodegradation. Dispersants act by reducing the surface tension
that stops oil and water from mixing. Small droplets of oil are then formed, which helps promote rapid dilution of the oil by
water movements. The formation of droplets also increases the oil surface area, thus increasing the exposure to natural
evaporation and bacterial action. Dispersants are most effective when used within an hour or two of the initial spill. However,
they are not appropriate for all oils and all locations. Successful dispersion of oil through the water column can affect marine
organisms like deep-water corals and sea grass. It can also cause oil to be temporarily accumulated by subtidal seafood.
Decisions on whether or not to use dispersants to combat an oil spill must be made in each individual case. The decision will
take into account the time since the spill, the weather conditions, the particular environment involved, and the type of oil that
has been spilt.