Question:
 
The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico and BP’s response are costly in many respects. Some of those
 
costs were realized immediately, while others will continue to be recognized for years to come.
 
Identify the cost implications of the spill and how best they might be recognized by BP (and
 
others). Should the accountant take a positive approach or a normative approach when trying
 
to quantify the costs? How can accountants assume a proactive role in shaping the strategic
 
decision making?