A Perfect Storm: Environmental Justice and Air Quality Impacts of Offshore Oil and Gas Development in the Arctic Outer Continental Shelf
General Material Designation
[Article]
First Statement of Responsibility
Race, Kayla
SUMMARY OR ABSTRACT
Text of Note
The Arctic Outer Continental Shelf is the next great legal battleground over oil and gas resources, environmental protection, and environmental justice. The Arctic is home to an array of sensitive ecological resources and a large Native Alaskan population that relies heavily on the natural environment for food and supplies. The Arctic Ocean also holds a vast amount of untapped oil and gas resources that had previously been largely inaccessible because of harsh climatic conditions and withdrawals of large swaths of the Shelf by Congress and multiple presidents. However, climate change is melting Arctic sea ice and opening up previously inaccessible areas. In addition, President Trump is pushing to expand oil and gas development everywhere, including the Arctic. If President Trump's plans prevail against the many legal challenges seeking to protect the Arctic, Native Alaskans will face a multitude of threats to their health, safety, and way of life.