An oil spill is "the release of liquid petroleum into the environment, especially marine areas, due to human activity, and is a form of pollution." There are several ways oil can be released into the environment, and there is a myriad of possible effects. Crude oil can be released from shipping boats, offshore platforms, and drilling wells. Refined oil, otherwise known as petroleum, can also be released by ships. Below is a short video on the Exxon Valdez Oil spill, and the effects it had.