According to a US Government report, in 2005 the US will consume 20.4 million barrels of oil per day. That same report states that the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge has 10.3 billion barrels of "technically recoverable" oil. That comes out to about 500 days worth of oil at our current consumption rates (but since consumption keeps rising, it will actually be less). That's not very much. In my opinion, it's not enough to risk the possible devastation that could occur in Alaska. And I don't believe that such a small amount will provide relief from foreign oil as proponents want you to think.
But a provision to allow drilling at the ANWR was tacked onto the budget in the Senate. A tricky move since Senate rules forbid a filibuster on the budget, thus ensuring its passage. Today, a vote to remove that provision failed 49-51. Our country just moved one step closer to drilling in Alaska. If the House passes it in their budget, that will be that.
3 comments:
[Imported comment* originally authored by Patrick.] Good thing we went into Iraq to solve our oil problem, that worked out real well...
[Imported comment* originally authored by Mike McD.] I heard about this this morning on NPR during the ride to work. I became outraged. Then I realized that my car only gets 22mpg. Then I was embarassed. Its assholes like me who help contribute to the problem. I need to drive less, or get a more efficient car. (although in my weak defense, my car has an outstanding hp/mpg ratio compared to the really fuel effecient cars on the road)
[Imported comment* originally authored by Renice.] I was at a car dealership a couple of nights ago. It's been so long since I've looked at mpg ratings on new cars (and it's not something I think about otherwise) - I was REALLY surprised they weren't much higher than the last time I was looking. I said of a Camry with 24mpg on the sticker, "That seems really low." The salesman jumped in, "Best in class!" I just shook my head. We should be doing better than that!
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