human
I've heard a lot about the BP oil spill. How is it affecting the Gulf Coast?
assistant
The effects of the oil spill are far-reaching and still being felt today. The spill has had devastating impacts on the environment, economy, and people's health. It has caused damage to marine life, killed wildlife, polluted beaches and waterways, disrupted livelihoods for fishermen and others who depend on the Gulf, and hurt tourism in affected areas. In addition, many people have been left unemployed due to the economic downturn caused by the spill.