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Should the Government Drill for Oil in the Arctic?

Drilling in the arctic causes the environmentalists to come out in full force against the current government in the United States. They oppose us drilling even in the area specifically set aside for this purpose. As a result of the controversy I decided to try to find a study showing the damage or lack of damage done when drilling in that specific region. I am not taking a specific stand although I am posting the reasons to NOT drill there. I feel the one study (see reference at end of article) I did find was rather lopsided in its viewpoint.

Reasons Why We Should Not Drill for Oil in the Arctic


Conclusion

I am a Christian and my view towards the environment strongly reflects these beliefs. The earth was given to man to provide for his needs. We were told to take care of it. To me, this means we should be careful in how we use our resources. Taking care of something - whether it is plant or animal - does not give us permission to destroy our environment. If estimates I have seen are correct, drilling in the arctic would give us less than six months worth of oil. In my opinion, this paltry amount of supply does not justify the damage being caused to the environment. Therefore, within the boundaries of my Christian belief, I would have to vote NO to drilling in the arctic at the current time.

Pertinent Websites to Visit on this Topic


Suggested Book Reference

Joe C. Truett and Stephen R. Johnson. The Natural History of an Arctic Oil Field: Development and the Biota. Academic Press. 2000.

The authors describe a research project that evaluated the effects of drilling for oil at various Alaskan sites (arctic). They carefully describe how the research was done. Then they describe the effects on the general plant community, specific animals and specific birds. This book will open your eyes to the problem and just may change your mind about whether we should be drilling for oil in Alaska and the arctic.

If you are an activist environmentalist, you will want to purchase this book. Alternatively, borrow it from your local library.

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