Introduction
With many factors, including its potential as a location for oil drilling, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) has been the subject of discussion for many years. The coastal plain in northeastern Alaska is the main point of contention for the refuge, which spans 19.6 million acres. The problem is complicated, and balancing economic and environmental interests is necessary. This essay examines the background of the ANWR controversy, the benefits and drawbacks of drilling there, the potential effects on the economy and the environment, the enactment of the decision, and suggestions for further action.
History of the ANWR Debate
Due to its biodiversity and importance to indigenous tribes, the ANWR is noteworthy. Numerous wildlife species live there, such as the polar bear, caribou, and musk ox, all in danger. Congress classified the ANWR as an ecologically sensitive region in 1980, but the coastal plain was not, leaving space for prospective drilling (Raval & McCormick, 2021). The discussion about drilling in ANWR began when the Trans-Alaska Pipeline was built in the 1970s. The pipeline passes through the area, and its construction was considered a chance to use the ANWR’s oil riches (Field et al., n.d.). Drilling proponents contend it would increase employment, strengthen the economy, and lessen reliance on foreign oil. Environmentalists and indigenous groups, meanwhile, are in favor of drilling because of the possibility of environmental harm and the region’s historical significance. By holding an auction for drilling leases in 2017, the Trump administration made the ANWR accessible for oil development (Field et al., n.d.). However, as of June 1, 2021, these leases were momentarily stopped, and since then, most businesses have terminated their contracts.
Pros and Cons of Drilling in ANWR
Drilling in the ANWR is supported by the claims that it will increase the economy, create jobs, and lessen reliance on foreign oil. Oil production is a significant part of Alaska’s economy, and drilling in ANWR might bring in billions of dollars for the region (Raval & McCormick, 2021). According to supporters, modern drilling techniques have allegedly lessened the impact of oil exploration on the environment. Meanwhile, environmentalists and indigenous groups oppose drilling because of the possibility of environmental harm and the region’s past importance (Fang, n.d.). Drilling in the ANWR could impact the ecology and local fauna, especially the Arctic Ocean. Additionally, indigenous groups consider the land sacred and depend on it for their lives.
Effects on the Economy and the Environment
Drilling in the ANWR might significantly negatively affect the environment, harming the ecosystem, polluting the air and water, and releasing greenhouse gases. Polar bears, one of several species on the brink of extinction in the region, could be affected by drilling operations. Drilling may also contaminate the air and streams, endangering the health of wildlife and native communities. Conversely, drilling in ANWR might significantly improve Alaska’s economy (Dister, 2022). Oil production is a significant part of the state’s economy, and drilling in ANWR might bring in billions of dollars for the government. It also increases employment and lessens reliance on foreign oil.
Implementing the ANWR Decision
Environmental organizations and indigenous populations opposed the Trump administration’s decision to allow oil drilling in ANWR. The Gwich’in Steering Committee and various environmental organizations filed legal challenges against the decision. The leasing procedure for oil and gas production in the ANWR will be suspended while a thorough evaluation of the program is being conducted, the Biden administration declared in March 2021. On June 1, 2021, the leasing procedure was permanently suspended, effectively ending any potential drilling operations in the area (Dister, 2022). The decision to postpone the leasing procedure significantly impacted the energy sector and environmental organizations. Due to the hazy future of drilling in the area, most businesses have since canceled their leases. Due to this decision, many businesses are still determining whether they will be permitted to continue their drilling operations in ANWR in the future (Dister, 2022). Environmental organizations have also applauded the decision, viewing it as a significant success in the struggle to preserve one of the country’s last remaining wilderness areas. The outcome of the leasing procedure is still up in the air, and controversy is likely to surround the subject for years to come. The more excellent discussion surrounding American energy policy and the future of ANWR are intertwined. The future of ANWR will continue to be an essential topic in the national discussion as the nation struggles to meet its energy demands while conserving the environment.
Recommendations for Future Action
It is advised that drilling in the area be wholly outlawed due to the potential adverse effects on the ecosystem and indigenous inhabitants. Alternative energy sources like wind and solar power should be investigated to meet the state’s energy needs. The federal government should contribute financially to Alaska’s transition to a less fossil fuel-dependent economy. This would entail spending on infrastructure and providing employment training for those employed in the renewable energy industry (Home – Arctic – U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, n.d.). While some politicians and business interests may oppose the drilling restriction in ANWR, it is crucial to put the preservation of the area’s distinctive ecosystems and indigenous inhabitants first. Oil drilling may have long-term effects on the environment and the community that outweigh any immediate economic benefits by a significant margin.
Additionally, putting money into alternative energy sources can boost the local economy and open new job opportunities. Moving away from fossil fuels is becoming more and more feasible as the cost of renewable energy technology keeps falling (Raval & McCormick, 2021). The federal government should lead in advancing and aiding the creation of renewable energy sources, particularly by allocating funds for innovative technology research and development.
Conclusion
To sum up, whether to permit or forbid drilling in ANWR is complicated and requires thoroughly examining economic, ecological, and social concerns. Drilling in the area may have some economic advantages, but these must be balanced against the adverse effects on the ecology and indigenous groups. It is advised that drilling be prohibited in the area indefinitely after examining the background and effects of the ANWR dispute. In order to satisfy the nation’s energy needs, different energy sources, including wind and solar power, need to be investigated. The federal government should also give Alaska financial assistance so that it may transition to an economy that is more environmentally friendly. In deciding on our energy regulations, it is critical that we put the preservation of our planet’s resources and the welfare of the people we serve first. We can build a more sustainable and just future for everyone by investing in renewable energy sources and encouraging individuals to move to alternatives to fossil fuels.
References
Dister, M. M. (2022). Wilderness v. Oil: Resource Balancing in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Alaska Law Review, 39(2), 313-345. https://scholarship.law.duke.edu/alr/vol39/iss2/6/
Fang, A. Oil Exploration In The Alaska National Wildlife Refuge. http://edwardwimberley.com/courses/EnviroPol/ANWR.pdf
Field, A., Williams, M., Freund, E., & Lystad, G. The Economics of Oil Development in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. https://files.worldwildlife.org/wwfcmsprod/files/Publication/file/2x48k6w2jd_Economics_of_Oil_Development_in_Arctic_Refuge.pdf
Home – Arctic – U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. (n.d.). Www.fws.gov. https://www.fws.gov/refuge/arctic
Raval, A., & McCormick, M. (2021, June 2). Biden suspends Arctic drilling rights sold in Trump’s last days as president. Financial Times. https://www.ft.com/content/ed5df5fa-17e2-41cb-b2e3-24a2b2ec7c99
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