Most of the supporters of drilling for oil stated that environmental damage will be limited because of the practices and experience of Arctic operations for over twenty years. By using new efficient techniques, impact on the tundra and the wildlife will be minimal. From these high-tech modern drilling techniques, fewer drilling platforms will be built. Building the oil fields on gravel pads the permafrost underneath will be protected. Pipelines will be lifted off the ground and these pipes will have fitted loops that will limit oil spills or leaks. Also, by using horizontal drilling, winter-only exploration due to migration and ice instead of gravel roads wildlife will not be ruined. Oil companies have claimed that they will clean and regenerate the areas they use by studies being made on how to turn back tundra to its original state. It is a fact that many companies are forced to use environmental-friendly products to lessen environmental damage. Unlike what environmentalists have argued, that the drilling will disturb ecosystems and migration patterns of wildlife, other drill sites in Alaska are indications that most animal populations are not affected. One of the many techniques stated is that oil will not be pumped but it will be tapped meaning it will be both a small and quiet operation to do successfully and many of the experienced Alaskans have agreed. (Wills, 2004)
Alaskans most concern is to find stability between protecting the environment and making the most out of their natural wealth. (McGowan, 2004). They are aware that only about eight percent of ANWR will be considered for exploration. Meaning that less than half of one percent of ANWR will be affected by drilling. According to a survey done, the dominant Alaskan population supported the project of drilling in the Refuge knowing that not many tourists are interested because only about 1.000 visitors come to ANWR annually. More than seventy-five percent of them support drilling in ANWR believing that it will amplify their state money. Oil production provides more income than any other economic activity in Alaska and eventually will change many things in the Alaskan economy. (Philip, 2004) State money is dependent upon oil exploration and this will mean more jobs for the people with increased salaries, efficient improvements will be made such as building new roads, hospitals and schools and construction projects will thrive. Alaska is known to balance between environmental protection and economic growth. From this oil wealth, the declining production in Alaska will be boosted with regards to the environment. (Pianin, 2004)
Another benefit of oil drilling is to decrease American dependence on expensive foreign oil incase of a crisis or shooting prices. (Pianin, 2004)It is believed that America should be oil-independent and self sufficient for that matter. Leading to an economic boom, drilling will dramatically lead to a lower oil prices. Not only will that oil help curb America's dependence on oil imports, but it will also generate money for the people. (Wills, 2004) The US imports about seventy percent of oil from other nations making it vulnerable to high oil prices and the prices are too costly. (World Book, 2000)
In the end drilling is a huge benefit for Alaskans and the world, mostly the US. Drilling could easily be done without damaging the refuge ecosystem and given the oil production technology existing today, ANWR can be opened for drilling with all requirements acted upon. The best reason for permitting drilling in Alaska is not only energy independence, but the overall benefits it will produce for the American economy. (World Book, 2000)
Bibliography and Citations
- McGowan, Joe 2004
- Pianin, Eric 2004
- Philip, John 2004
- Wills, Steven 2004
- Millennium World Book Encyclopedia 2001