The main subject of the study described herein, was the fate of crude oil, i.e. its biodegradation and evaporation, after being released into the environment as a result of accidental oil spills and discharges of pro-duction waters. Its primary purpose is to present the findings of this study to a wide audience, particularly decision-makers (e.g. governmental-level regulators of the petroleum industry), scientists, engineers and professionals in related fields, and the public at large, in the hope of providing guidance regarding the envi-ronmental consequences of, and reactions to, such occurrences.