In defiance of many environmental groups, on March 13 the Biden administration rightfully approved the Willow Project, a ConocoPhillips initiative in Northern Alaska that will allow oil drilling on 499 acres of land.
Its approval was met by major condemnation from left-wing groups who claim it will exacerbate climate change. But this view is very shortsighted and doesn’t consider other interests at hand.
Energy independence, jobs and decreasing foreign oil production are all reasons the choice to approve the Willow Project was the right decision.
The United States has vast energy needs for commodities such as fuel, clothing and plastics. In 2021, Americans consumed more than 19 million barrels of oil per day, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). These energy needs have to be met.
This reality shows us that oil is still a necessary resource in the current-day and future in order to meet our energy needs. This gives us two options: either we get oil from foreign countries, or we produce it by ourselves.
As reported by the US Chamber of Commerce, American-produced oil and gas production is much cleaner emissions-wise than foreign oil and gas production. This is due to more extensive environmental regulation and technological innovation that other countries are not as fortunate to have.
This means opposing American oil drilling initiatives such as the Willow Project is actually worse for the environment, as it would necessitate purchasing dirtier sources of oil. As a result, promoting American energy is much better for lowering carbon emissions and saving the environment.
This debunks the claim that the US is worsening the problem of climate change, as we’re actually lowering emissions by producing cleaner oil.
US carbon emissions have been decreasing since 2007, even as oil production has skyrocketed, according to EIA.
This energy independence doesn’t just help us fight emissions at home but also in other nations. As pointed out by Congressman Dan Crenshaw (R-TX), our natural gas exports could help lower emissions by replacing foreign coal power plants. The 65 percent drop in US carbon emissions is attributable to moving from coal power plants to natural gas ones, according to the EIA. Nations relying on our oil exports would replace their dirtier oil production, lowering emissions overall.
Another aspect of the Willow Project ignored by environmentalists is how this will benefit Alaska communities. The Willow Project will be a boon to Alaskan communities, providing around 2,500 new construction jobs, according to ABC News.
ConocoPhillips estimates the project will provide $8-$17 billion in new revenue to local, state and federal governments. This money can be used to improve local infrastructure and education in Alaska.
The Willow Project represents American energy independence, new jobs and a path to lower carbon emissions. The decision to approve it by the Biden Administration marks a new effort to enact reasonable energy policy.