How Much Oil Is In ANWAR?
The recent debate over fuel exploration within protected lands has caused many people to wonder: how much oil is in ANWAR?
The potential for a large amount of fuel within this area is extremely high. However, since this area of land became protected in 1960, all types of exploration have been restricted to aeromagnetic surveys, winter seismic surveys, and geological research. With the exception of one drilling mission, on other drilling has taken place in this area since 1960. In short, the only way to find out exactly how much oil is in ANWAR is to drill within this area.
So, why don’t corporations just head out to Alaska and begin to explore? Simply put, there is no telling how much damage drilling within this area could do. Though those that want to drill within this area claim that only 8% of the land would be affected by exploration, this small percentage could grow once larger companies begin to explore further. Those that are in favour of exploring this land believe that this type of exploration would bring jobs, lower gas prices, and boost the nation’s exportation of oil on a global front. Those that are opposed to this proposition have an altogether different opinion regarding this area of the world.
While oil rigs seem to be rather clean and under control, many times this type of exploration actually leads to environmental disaster. As the history books show, drilling within any type of land often causes destruction. Within this particular chunk of land, there are thousands of plant and animal species thriving. If a large number of companies are allowed to enter the ANWR region, the mere fact that they will shred the land is enough to permanently damage life as it currently exists. How much oil is in ANWAR? Well, time will certainly tell.
As pump prices keep rising, it seems more and more likely that this region of Alaska will eventually be open to exploration. What will happen as a result has yet to be seen, though some are hopeful that oil companies, governments, and environmental groups can all work together towards some type of solution.
As you can see, there is no definitive answer to the above question (how much oil is in ANWAR?). One thing is for sure, this area of the world will soon become the topic of much debate.