Oil Drilling Essay Example
Oil Drilling Essay Example

Oil Drilling Essay Example

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  • Pages: 2 (495 words)
  • Published: April 8, 2017
  • Type: Essay
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Back in 1985, it was stated by Gossett that the US produced 75% of its oil and imported only a quarter. However, current data suggests that imports now constitute around 70% of consumption requirements. Moore highlights a Congressional study which reveals that oil corporations have leased federal land measuring 68 million acres but are not utilizing it. Despite concerns about the potential long-term effects of dependence on oil, the need for prompt action is necessary due to high prices.

In his article, Lewis Gossett addresses the issue of drilling in the offshore Outer Continental Shelf. He recognizes that our economy heavily depends on oil and gas, and though alternative fuels may be a future solution, we currently require an immediate answer to meet our oil needs. Gossett emphasizes the negative consequences of maintaining the suspension on exploration and drilling, in

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cluding enabling our adversaries to profit from our daily consumption of 20 million barrels of oil at a cost of $700 billion. As Americans face high gas prices ranging between three to four dollars per gallon, countries like Saudi Arabia and Iraq pay only fifty cents per gallon.

Although the significance of oil is widely recognized, drilling in the Outer Continental Shelf has faced opposition due to extensive unused leased land. Those who advocate for offshore drilling have not presented a strong argument for drilling in this area. Consequently, it has been suggested that we limit drilling to the already leased areas. This approach would help minimize pollution risks arising from offshore drilling and transportation of oil through pipelines, barges or tankers. Rather than focusing on offshore drilling, our efforts should be directed towards developing immediate and long-term

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solutions for tackling the energy crisis. Conserving energy is an effective strategy for reducing oil and gasoline prices.

Following a reduction of 800,000 barrels per day in American oil consumption, the price of oil per barrel - which had previously exceeded $140 - has fallen. Raphael took note of this decline. Despite having less than 2% of the world's known oil reserves, America consumes as much as 25% of global oil usage. This indicates an apparent discrepancy between supply and demand.

To reduce our dependence on oil, it is suggested that Americans prioritize conservation methods like walking or biking to work rather than driving. Even if the moratorium-affected areas were allowed for drilling, it would only meet 1% of our petroleum needs by supplying 200,000 barrels of oil per day. Our demand outweighs production capacity; hence we need to focus more energy and resources into alternative sources such as electricity and natural gas. By investing half of our current efforts in these alternatives, we can decrease reliance on oil significantly. The debate surrounding offshore drilling will likely continue for years.

Although opinions on offshore drilling vary, with some viewing it as a way to achieve independence from unfriendly nations while others criticize its lack of foresight, there is agreement that the United States needs to tackle this matter.

It is of great importance to address the energy crisis in the region.

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