The Willow Project

Written by: Caroline Kim

March 4, 2023

This past week, I came across a topic of environmental concern, and you’ve probably already heard about it: The Willow Project. Many news outlets have released statements, as this is a topic of serious concern to many environmentalists. According to CNN, The Willow Project, proposed by ConocoPhillips, is a massive and decades-long oil drilling venture on Alaska’s North Slope that the state’s lawmakers say will create jobs and boost domestic energy production… environmental groups have remained staunchly opposed to it, fearing the effect of the planet-warming carbon pollution from the hundreds of millions of barrels of oil it would produce” (Nilson).

There is a heavy interconnected impact of this project on global health, global economies, and the environment. Concerns for environmental health include the large quantities of carbon emissions (9.2 million metric tons according to the Biden administration) as well as other emissions that could put the health of indigenous people/nearby residents at risk. While most residents are in favor of this project, several are still reluctant. Essentially, the project is meant to ensure energy security, but would have a detrimental environmental cost and add to the stress that is already on the Alaskan wildlife. Stances on this topic vary, as there is a major petition to prevent this project’s progression, but it is important that everyone research and stays informed in order to determine their thoughts on the topic. This project would impact so many, and its awareness is crucial.

Sources:

Nilsen, Ella. “Climate Advocates Are Rallying against the Willow Project. The White House Is Eyeing Concessions to Soften the Blow | CNN Politics.” CNN, Cable News Network, 3 Mar. 2023, https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/02/politics/willow-project-petition-concessions-biden-climate/index.html.

“The Willow Project.” Protect Our Winters, 22 Feb. 2023, https://protectourwinters.org/campaign/willow/.