When we drill for oil, we spill in North Carolina
By Matt Levine// Staff Writer
The current administration’s Department of the Interior will soon be releasing their second draft proposal of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Oil and Gas Leasing Program outlining their plan to issue permits and hold sales of oil and gas leases along the east coast of the United States, including off the shores of North Carolina. The administration claims that “safe and well-regulated” oil drilling will allow the United States to become a world-dominant oil producer. The fact is that production of offshore oil and gas can and often does leak toxic pollution into our oceans, damaging the aquatic ecosystem and negatively impacting people’s ability to enjoy our beautiful beaches (The Wilderness Society). The environmental effects of oil drilling are severe and far-reaching, affecting the safety of sea life, polluting our air, and contributing to climate change causing gas emissions (Conserve Energy Future).
Oil drilling may provide for a short-term yet woefully misguided economic boost. In the long run, however, a gradual switch to renewable energies such as wind and solar can create an even greater amount of new jobs and wealth. Wind energy is a uniquely qualified option for North Carolina as its coasts exhibit great amounts of wind (Oceana). The decision to create wind farms and windmills in the state of North Carolina would create thousands of sustainable jobs, while also being far kinder to the environment. While oil is a limited and finite resource, wind is sustainable for the long haul, making the initial investment in new technologies worth it both fiscally and environmentally. Even without the economic advantages of renewable energy, protecting the environment is priceless.
The current administration is sending a message that short-term economic benefits are more important than the long-term sustainability of our oceans and environment. Communities along North Carolina’s coast have already voiced their opposition over this environmentally destructive practice, including 29 mayors, bipartisan congressional representatives and thousands of concerned citizens. Following the release of this draft, there will be a three-month period for public comments. It is critical that during this time we contact our elected officials at both the state and national level to voice our concerns and echo the sentiments of our coastal neighbors. I hope that our state can rally together in order to protect our coast from the catastrophes that accompany offshore drilling.
There will be a Green Team sponsored on-campus screening of the documentary “Sonic Sea,” demonstrating the effects that oil drilling has on the oceans and sea animals that call them home. The showing will be on Wednesday, March 27 in the Nido Qubein School of Communication room 205 at 6-8PM. Pizza and popcorn will be provided.
‘Sonic Sea’ is showing on Wednesday, March 27 in the Nido Qubeing School of Communication room 205 at 6-8 pm. Photo submitted