When we drill, we spill. Offshore drilling is harmful to marine life, human health and the climate, which is why more than 100 youth leaders from all across the country are urging Congress to oppose the Energy Permitting Reform Act (S.4753). The bill would offer 60 million acres of ocean for oil drilling each year for five years – an area larger than the Great Lakes combined.
Lindsey Maschler, a student from Florida studying at the University of Vermont, shared, “Growing up in South Florida, I’ve always felt a strong connection to the ocean, and I’ve seen firsthand the devastating effects pollution can have on marine life, especially Florida’s Coral Reef.” She added, “As a young person, the legacy of these decisions will affect my generation and future ones. We’re the ones inheriting this planet, and I don’t want to see it ruined for short-term profit at the expense of long-term survival.”
Students from inland states including Arizona, Ohio and Colorado share Lindsey’s desire to protect the ocean and avert future catastrophes like the Deepwater Horizon disaster, which spilled 4 million barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico in 2010. The spill killed up to 175,000 turtles and 1,100 dolphins, while disrupting habitats and food chains for years.
“Growing up in Colorado, I was able to experience the wonders of nature firsthand,” said Tom Snyder, a student leader at American University who recruited many of his peers to speak up for ocean conservation. “I was raised in the mountains and on the lakes and rivers. Seeing wildlife in their natural habitats, and enjoying the clear, fresh air gave me a profound respect for our natural resources. I came to understand that preserving these landscapes is not only about beauty but about safeguarding the health of our communities and ensuring future generations can experience the same natural wonders I did.”
The Energy Permitting Reform Act pairs an expansion of drilling with provisions intended to bolster renewable energy. Youth leaders urged action on renewable energy wtihout counterproductive measures to increase fossil fuel pollution.
“Energy permitting reform is a necessary step in facilitating a speedy energy transition in the U.S., but this bill includes items that are antithetical to transitioning our fossil fuel based energy systems to renewable energy,” said Xavier Laack, a club leader at Dartmouth University. “Reducing our dependence on fossil fuels begins by not extracting more than we already are, particularly via risky methods in delicate ecosystems.”
