Op-Ed: Stop The WilLow Project

Controversy sparked across America after the recent announcement of the Willow Project, a $6 billion proposal from Alaska's largest crude oil producer, ConocoPhillips. The project promises to produce 180,000 barrels of oil a day, but opponents say the environmental consequences could be devastating. 

The project, which would drill on the National Petroleum Reserve of Alaska, was originally proposed back in 2020 under the Trump administration; however, the Biden administration continued to pursue the project despite promises made to the contrary during his campaign. 

If the project is approved, there will be 9.2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide produced per year (the equivalent of an additional 2 million gas cars per year). And with a set lifespan of 30 years, there will be an estimated 287 million metric tons of carbon dioxide released.

Climate activists insist that the Willow Project will bring more harm than good. The Sierra Club, the United States' largest environmentalist group, claims that “The Willow Project would have a devastating effect on public lands and our climate, and approving it after passing the largest climate bill in history would be a giant step in reverse." 

There is also the worry about the effect it will have on various wildlife that is native to the Arctic. For example, the habitats of caribou and polar bears will be affected, declining their chance of survival. 

The Biden administration is trying to put a bandage over the wound by promising less oil rigs. Originally, the project had planned five, which decreased to three. After recent protests, it has been lowered to two. The administration also promised to invest in reforestation in order to combat the negative effect that the Willow Project will have on the environment. 

These measures will not matter in the long run, however, as the ultimate consequences of this project are devastating for present and future generations. This is simply a case of lawmakers making economic policies that they will not have to deal with in their lifetime. 

The Willow Project serves as a reminder of the challenge between balancing economic development and protecting the environment. We must consider the long-term consequences of our actions. 

Activists have been fighting against this project through various petitions. You can visit Change.Org to sign one that has over 2.8 million signatures pleading for its withdrawal. Additionally, you can visit Protectthearctic.org to sign a letter that asks the president to stop the project. 

A decision from the Biden administration is due any day now. Do your part.

https://www.protectthearctic.org/stop-willow 

https://www.change.org/p/joseph-r-biden-biden-administration-and-conocophillips-say-no-to-the-willow-project