Judge Approves BP Deepwater Horizon Consent Decree

“Today’s approval sets in motion the largest environmental restoration program in U.S history, totaling more than $20 billion for Gulf Coast recovery and restoration. Six years after the spill, this historic decree represents a significant milestone for the ecosystems, economies and communities of the Gulf Coast that were damaged by the oil disaster. We commend the Gulf Coast states, U.S. Department of Justice and BP for reaching a resolution.

“Now that the agreement is final, it is imperative that the states and agencies implementing these restoration programs use this money as it is intended – to create a more resilient Gulf ecosystem. A comprehensive approach across these funding streams is key to the long-term sustainability and vitality of America’s Gulf Coast. We encourage the Administration and Gulf Coast states to make speed and innovation the benchmarks for how these funds are put to use.”

- Fred Krupp, president of Environmental Defense Fund