Abstract This paper describes what the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge actually is. It covers the pros and cons of drilling for oil in the refuge from political, economical, religious perspectives. It gives the writer's opinion on the topic, which is NOT to drill in the refuge. It then gives alternative ideas to drilling and backs them up with facts from credible sources like the U.S. Geological Survey.
From the Paper "An environmental masterpiece to be preserved, or an economic opportunity waiting to be tapped? This is the debate that has been persistent around the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for over 40 years. It is also a mainstream argument for many environmental philosophies. Pro-drilling advocates tend to take on Judeo-Christian beliefs, while anti-drilling organizations stick with conservation or preservationist values. These two groups portray their views over the internet using many types of representation, false or not, to convince readers their position is correct. Both sides have their pros and cons, but my opinion on the topic is that drilling for oil in the ANWR is a poor idea due to inevitable environmental complications."
Abstract This paper presents a detailed examination of the debate over drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The writer explores both sides and presents the argument that drilling will not negatively impact the environment and will support wildlife there. The writer uses the example of Purdhoe Bay to illustrate how drilling without harming the environment can be effectively done.
From the Paper "Experts in the field of environment and science have been warning the world for years that the earth's resources are not unlimited and would eventually run dry. It has only been in the past few decades however that the world's population began to listen. In the panic about dwindling resources there has been a rush to locate new sources of energy and other needed materials. Environmentalists have moved in to block hasty projects while those who support them try to push them through and the end result is often a standoff. In the midst of this occurring the last American frontier, Alaska, has moved to the forefront of controversy. One such controversy is the proposed drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Proponents believe it will provide the world with a much needed energy source, while detractors of the drilling insist it will destroy the environment and harm local wildlife, in particular the caribou porcupines. Once one studies the facts, the past, and similar projects one will find that drilling can be done in an environmentally safe manner and provide the world with a much needed source of natural resources."
Abstract Discusses pros & cons of limited oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). History of attempts to protect ANWR and attempts to open up the refuge for oil drilling & gas exploration. Impact on environment. Economic factors (fuel prices, creation of additional jobs). Other forms of energy. Quality of life issue.
From the Paper "Introduction
Although it was first discovered in 1799, Alaska was not officially admitted into the union as a state until 1959. Up until that time, Alaska's history had been littered with settlers from all over the world who found opportunity in the harsh climate of the land, during the gold rush, when oil was first discovered, and even now in its thriving fishing industry. Alaska's shores were also the sight of a sustained attack by Japanese forces during World War II that took two years to beat back (ExploreNorth 2001). Now, Alaska is also known for its wildlife, massive spaces, the pioneering and independent attitudes of its residents, as well as the brutality of its seasons. Indeed, Alaska has been called the last frontier of the United States."
Abstract This paper looks at the pros and cons of drilling for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). It looks at issues and conflicts of the drilling argument and the need for oil in the U.S. as opposed to the quality of life issue for certain animal species.
From the Paper "One of the most controversial environmental issues being discussed recently is whether or not to drill for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The ANWR was first set aside as ..."
Tags: Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, ANWR, Oil, Conservation, Environment
Abstract A look at the controversy surrounding the drilling of oil in Alaska. The writer presents political opposition as well as environmental concerns. On the other side, economic factors are taken into account.
From the Paper "For some years, Congress as well as those interested in both the energy industry and the preservation of wild areas in the United States have argued whether drilling sites in Alaska should be expanded. One area of debate has been the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) in Alaska."
Tags: arctic, preservation, environment, barrel, wildlife, energy
Abstract This paper explains that the northern slopes of Alaska's one hundred fifty million acre coastal plain, which is part of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), is abundant in both oil and gas reserves and is the number one prospect for United States' oil and gas development. The author points out that the use of wildlife refuges and wilderness areas for energy development has become a very hot topic, especially in Alaska, because of the United States' dependence on foreign oil. The paper relates that researchers and developers are seeking new technologies to drill for and transport the oil without hurting the surrounding environment in the process.
From the Paper "According to government estimates, the equivalent of one billion, four hundred million barrels of oil are tucked away under Teshekpuk Lake. This lake is Alaska's third largest lake. Teshekpuk, which means big enclosed coastal water. This is where the Pacific Black Brant migrates for its annual molt. Migratory birds, as well as moose, bear and fish take full advantage of this wild life refuge. Many make their home there and
others migrate to this placid lake every year."
Abstract This paper discusses the impact of oil drilling waste on the environment of the Persian Gulf Region. It identifies the areas of petroleum extraction activities. The paper mentions types of ecological damage associated with petroleum extraction. The author considers some approaches to environmental risk management.
Abstract The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is the most promising onshore area for oil exploration and one of the wildest areas remaining in the United States. Therefore, the conflict between the need to develop energy resources and the desire to preserve wild areas has led to the prolonged debate over the merits of programs to lease the region for oil exploration and development. According to the paper, drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge would cause environmental costs that include some elements that are essentially certain, as well as elements that are uncertain, such as the unpredictable effects on the number and health of certain important species. The paper concludes that development is environmentally damaging no matter the cautions, because it alters the wild state of the region forever.
From the Paper "When Alaska entered the Union in 1958, Congress transferred an exceptionally large amount of land to the new state, and at the same time, the Department of the Interior used its authority to administratively reserve land for federal use, resulting to decades of controversy and disputes (Grover). Since 1957, the United States Department of the Interior has exercised primary administrative authority over most of the land comprising modern-day ANWR Grover). This fact has meant that a great deal to people who care about the Refuge (Grover). Federal management has produced a land that is valued as much for its unique wilderness character as it is prized for its suspected mineral wealth, and in particular, it has precluded significant petroleum exploration and development of the Refuge (Grover)."
Abstract This paper explores the importance of porcupine caribou and other keystone species of Alaska's ecosystems. It revisits past oil spills and shows the negative effects oil drilling has and will have on the environment.
From the Paper "Fish habitats are also in danger if drilling takes place in the refuge. Erosion, sedimentation, or alteration of drainage flow or wetland habitat can result from inadequate cross-drainage structures. Gravel removal from a floodplain can also affect fish by changing the patterns of flow or water quality. Water withdrawal can reduce the flow of a stream and potentially raise the temperature to dangerous levels if it becomes low enough. Causeways may inhibit the movement of fish, and change the quality or quantity of movement of sediment. Oil in water bodies will coat fish - making it impossible for them to eat, mate, or breathe - it also poisons them and makes them inedible for other predatory animals. "
Abstract The paper examines the issue of drilling for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from an environmental standpoint and discusses the harm greenhouse gases cause. The paper discusses how drilling would cause irreparable damage to animals and the wilderness, especially considering the relatively small amount of oil that is available in the area. The paper looks at the arguments of proponents of drilling but strongly disagrees with their view. The paper maintains that the country should be aggressively developing alternative fuels that will be cleaner and more economic.
From the Paper "Proponents of drilling in the area note the 1002 area, where drilling would occur, is just a small area of the entire Refuge, and that wildlife in the area will not be harmed by drilling in so small an area. Americans now know how dangerous greenhouse gases from fossil fuels can be, and alternative energy sources are what the country should be investigating now, rather than more dependence on national (or foreign) oil. Drilling for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is a stopgap measure at best, and ruining one of America's last pristine wilderness areas is not worth the cost of a few barrels of oil."
Abstract The writer explores the affect that Alaskan oil drilling has on the environment, the fossil fuel issue and the effect drilling has on the Eskimo's lifestyle. The paper includes a diagram of the animals affected by the oil spilling and discusses points of view for and against the issue.
From the Paper "As the world continues to improve medical research people are living longer than ever before. While people are living longer babies are still being born and this translates to a need for more natural resources than ever before. While the world is using the current resources in record numbers scientists and environmentalists are scrambling to locate new resources and solutions that will support the increasing world population while at the same time protect the environment. Sometimes the scientists and environmentalists agree and other times they are at odds as to the best way to go. For the past few years there has been an ongoing debate about oil drilling in Alaska. Alaska is often referred to as America's last frontier. It is wild and untamed and it has untapped resources that are currently being eyed for the future. Drilling for oil in Alaska has become a controversial issue for several reasons. Environmentalists and scientists remain at odds over the affect the drilling will have on the future of the area. Some of the concerns involve the Eskimos, the fossil fuel question, the environmental impact and the disruption drilling has on the sea. These topics are being addressed while the drilling marches forward which puts the topic in a time crunch in environmental eyes. The affects the drilling has on the environment and those who live in the area must be considered and addressed if the drilling is going to be productive to the world."
Abstract This paper examines the debate over oil drilling in Alaska. It suggests that it is not necessary even given current and possibly future gas shortages in America. It gives various reasons to the adverse affect of using Alaskan oil reserves including the Exxon Valdez incident, the development of supplementary energy sources, and environmental issues.
From the paper:
"As gas prices have risen over the past year, the term "crisis" has been tossed around a great deal, suggesting a number of different possibilities. Among these: Americans may soon run out of gas, Americans may soon be paying five or ten dollars per gallon, and the American will stall utterly if there is not enough cheap gas available. In fact, of course, none of these speculations is true. What is true, and what will be discussed in this paper, is that these higher gas prices are indeed a wake-up call to Americans that something must be done to change our expectations about where our energy will be coming from in the next century."
Tags: environment, energy, Exxon-Valdez, fuel, oil, fuel, prices, energy
Abstract This paper looks at every aspect of the oil industry in the Persian Gulf, using United Arab Emirates (UAE) as the specific case study to examine the affects of oil production and its transportation on the environment in the UAE.
The Table of Contents:
Introduction
Nature of Drilling in the United Arab Emirates
The Political and Social Organization of the United Arab Emirates
History of the UAE as a Nation-State
The Geography of the Persian Gulf as a Whole
Temperature, Climate, and Topography of the Land
The Ecological History of the Persian Gulf
Pollution Related to Oil Production and Transportation
Strategies for Improvement
Steps Being Taken
Steps to Take
Conclusions
From the Paper "This does not mean that accidents are not of any concern of the UAE. There is a recognition significant future potential for oil-related accidents. The danger from oil spills is a worldwide problem and the Gulf presents a uniquely challenging environmental situation. There is a high level of traffic through the waters of the UAE by oil tankers and other shipping rigs. Since the Gulf War of 1991, the waters of the UAE have suffered from a number of significant oil spills within the country's recent historical, collective memory. Most of these spills were accidental but the intentional release of Kuwaiti oil by the Iraqis at the end of the War raised serious concerns within the borders of the UAE as to the potential for spilling oil as a war-related tactic. This act gained the attention of all of the Gulf States, convincing them that they should take immediate steps to prevent damage from oil spills in the future. In this case, the political instability of the region acted as a "wake up" call to all of the Gulf nations. (Zeitoun and Goudsouzian, 2001: 150) The most recent spill occurred when an Iraqi tanker called the Zainab, a container ship smuggling Iraqi crude, sank in April of 2001. It was carrying over one million gallons of Iraqi fuel and 300 tons of fuel oil when it sank off the port of Jebel Ali, south of Dubai. (Zeitoun and Goudsouzian, 2001: 150) The spill spread oil along the Sharjah, Dubai, and Ajam coast. Beaches were fouled, and local Ajmani authorities closed the emirate's main desalination water plant as a precaution against pollution. This caused significant water shortages. (Zeitoun and Goudsouzian, 2001: 150; "Gulf Tanker Spill Under Control": MSNBC.COM)"
This paper examines the ongoing debate between those who support the oil industry and those who wish to protect the Alaskan coastal plains from being drilled in search of oil.
Abstract This paper summarizes the argument against drilling for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge on the basis of damage that would be caused to the environment and the wildlife inhabiting the region. The topic is connected to the events of September 11th which nearly allowed the Republicans to push through an emergency Energy Security Bill, allowing for the extraction of oil from the ANWR.
From the Paper "In the past 10 months many people have claimed that the world as we knew it a year ago has been profoundly and irreversibly transformed with the events of September 11th, 2001. Others have attacked these claims as being yet another example of American ethnocentrism and egocentricity: the world has not changed, the USA simply got a taste of reality. However, whether the United States was living in a sheltered state of denial in which true poverty, destruction and war never found a home on its shores, or whether the world truly has changed entirely, is a subject for a different debate and a different paper."
Abstract This paper analyzes and examines the multitude of issues related to power tools. It also discusses statistics regarding power tools, manufacturers and competition in the industry, government regulation, and health hazards.
From the Paper "Presently numerous companies manufacture and sell power tools and competition is healthy and robust. Some of the more well known companies involved in the manufacture and sale of power tools include Black and Decker, Bosch, DeWalt, Hitachi, Home Depot, Lowes, and Skil. Each of these companies presently generates annual sales of several million (and in some cases, billion) dollars, with a yearly growth rate of approximately 3-5%. Commonly purchased and used power tools include air compressors; band saws; circular saws; grinders; Jig saws; Miter saws; pneumatic tools; power drills; power nailers; rotary tools; routers; scroll saws; and table saws."
