Energy expert warns that if the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System is shut down, significant amounts of oil, gas, and coal will be cut off.
Environmental activists have filed a legal petition with the federal government to close the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, which used to transport 25 percent of America’s oil production.
The coalition behind the petition includes various environmental groups and was submitted to Debra Haaland, the Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior.
The Trans-Alaska Pipeline, stretching 800 miles with a 48-inch diameter, is one of the world’s largest pipelines, carrying oil from Alaska’s North Slope to Valdez. It was completed in 1977 and is currently owned by a consortium of companies.
The pipeline required federal approval to pass through federal lands, which was granted under the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Authorization Act in 1973.
The environmental groups argue that the original environmental analysis did not consider climate change issues or the impact on wildlife in Alaska.
Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy criticized the groups, while experts believe the petition will be rejected by the Bureau of Land Management.
If the pipeline is closed, it would cut off a significant energy source in Alaska.
Efforts to shut down the pipeline could lead to a “sue and settle” phase, where plaintiffs sue the government and reach a settlement.
The Department of Interior declined to comment on the petition.
Despite the potential for oil exploration in Northern Alaska, the pipeline’s throughput has significantly decreased over the years.
The pipeline owners invest in preventing oil spills and there are plans to build a natural gas pipeline in the region.
Please provide an alternative version of the text.
Source link
