Kemp: Oil in Arcadia

It is North Dakota's oil that has reduced U.S. dependence on overseas supplies and given policymakers the freedom to pursue a more confident sanctions policy towards Iran.

And it is North Dakota's oil that has lessened reliance on imports from countries with poor records on human rights and environmental safeguards.

None of this is meant to excuse spillages, blow outs and pollution, or suggest the industry, regulators and politicians should not pursue constant improvements.

But it is important to keep pollution problems in perspective. Every economic activity entails some risks. The point is to manage them.

Hazards are not restricted to oil and gas. Few commentators like to acknowledge the pollution associated with producing the rare earth elements essential to much modern clean technology.

Nor are the hazards restricted to shale. Far more pollution has been caused by conventional onshore and offshore production over the decades.

North Dakota's track record on pollution control and safety is considerably better than alternative sources of U.S. fuels such as Nigeria or Venezuela.


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WHAT DO YOU THINK?


Generated by readers, the comments included herein do not reflect the views and opinions of Rigzone. All comments are subject to editorial review. Off-topic, inappropriate or insulting comments will be removed.

ND Landman  |  November 25, 2014
As someone who deals with surface owners for a living out in western ND, the Times narrative on pollution and spills is so overwrought. To their credit, surface owners are extremely diligent in looking after their property, if there are spills or other forms of pollution on their property then you certainly hear about it. I hear far more complaints about dust and weed control than I ever do about oil or chemical spills.
Phillip Martellaro  |  November 25, 2014
Very well written counterpoint to the NYT article. It is true that our nation has better regulation over industry than most of the world. Our lifestyle in the US depends on energy and while we can minimize our environmental impact it will never be zero. Subaru touts a zero landfill plant, but this is only a marketing gimmick to appease a very left customer base. You cannot build a car without waste, in this case they have others create the waste. New York City does not want a single power plant near them but they certainly want, need and demand electricity as they should. The want, need and demand should come without hypocrisy of where that energy comes from.
Joe  |  November 25, 2014
Very good article. Wish there was more truth and unbias reporting of the facts. Seams like everyone has an agenda.


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