A review of the literature suggests that the term 'oil and grease', as used in descriptive and regulatory context for dredged material disposal, is a broadly based term defined by the methodology used in its determination. Oil and grease contains numerous natural and petroleum derived hydrocarbons, plus fats, oil, and waxes of both natural and anthropogenic origin. Also included in oil and grease are trace quantities of fat-soluble materials such as DDT and PCB. Elemental sulfur is a contaminant often included in oil and grease determinations by virtue of its solubility in some organic solvents. Although some oil and grease fractions are readily degraded by microbiological action, many petroleum hydrocarbons are resistant to decomposition. Little is known concerning the effects of sediment-associated oil and grease on organisms and ecosystems, although in the case of certain oil spills it is known that toxic oily residues can be retained over periods of years in sediments with little abatement of their toxic properties.

Since the early 1970s, experts have recognized that petroleum pollutants were being discharged in marine waters worldwide, from oil spills, vessel operations, and land-based sources. Public attention to oil spills has forced improvements. Still, a considerable amount of oil is discharged yearly into sensitive coastal environments. Oil in the Sea provides the best available estimate of oil pollutant discharge into marine waters, including an evaluation of the methods for assessing petroleum load and a discussion about the concerns these loads represent. Featuring close-up looks at the Exxon Valdez spill and other notable events, the book identifies important research questions and makes recommendations for better analysis ofâ€"and more effective measures againstâ€"pollutant discharge. The book discusses: Inputâ€"where the discharges come from, including the role of two-stroke engines used on recreational craft. Behavior or fateâ€"how oil is affected by processes such as evaporation as it moves through the marine environment. Effectsâ€"what we know about the effects of petroleum hydrocarbons on marine organisms and ecosystems. Providing a needed update on a problem of international importance, this book will be of interest to energy policy makers, industry officials and managers, engineers and researchers, and advocates for the marine environment.