Final answer:
The percentage of oil recovery from spills varies and can often be less than 25%. Various methods like skimmer ships and dispersants are used, but they have limitations and can create environmental risks. Complete recovery is difficult and can take years.
Step-by-step explanation:
Current technologies are capable of recovering a variable percentage of an oil spill, depending on the nature and circumstances of each incident.
For example, during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, a range of methods were used to address the spill, such as skimmer ships, controlled burns, floating booms, and the use of dispersants like Corexit 9527. However, these methods have varying degrees of effectiveness and can also pose potential risks to the environment.
The actual percentage that can be recovered is difficult to pinpoint and can be less than a quarter of the total spillage in many cases. Over time, natural processes and additional human efforts, such as bioremediation using oil-degrading bacteria, can further reduce the impact, but a complete recovery is often challenging and can take years.