Abstract: Methods for dehalogenating halogenated hydrocarbons are described. The methods involve mixing the halogenated hydrocarbon with an oxidizing agent, a diol and an alkali base. The mixture is heated to a temperature sufficient to remove water from the mixture. The mixture is then reacted at a sufficient temperature for a sufficient amount of time to cause the halogens of the mixture to form halide salt solids. Solids are then removed from the mixture, leaving a dehalogenated hydrocarbon.