Arctic National Wildlife Refuge debate

• Main Author: Shoemaker, Lacey
• Format: Text
• Language: English
• Published: Western CEDAR 2008
• Subjects: oil drilling; ecology; Arctic National Wildlife Refuge; Geography; Arctic; north slope; Alaska
• Online Access: https://cedar.wwu.edu/wdcag/2008wdcag/2008/67

In this poster, conflict analysis is used to illustrate the strategic aspects of an environmental and social conflict involving a multitude of players. ANWR is an area rich in fauna, flora, and commercial oil potential. Shortages of gasoline and natural gas and resulting increased prices have renewed the ANWR debate for the first time in 5 years; however, its development has been debated for over 40 years. Current law forbids energy leasing in the refuge, but the recent spike in oil and gasoline prices has led to renewed interest in various responses to high oil prices, including additional U.S. drilling. Alaska provides a good example of the internal political, economic, and social tensions felt by Arctic states. The major tensions are between industry (mainly oil and gas), local indigenous groups, and environmentalists. The impact of oil drilling on the ecology of ANWR's North Slope is a hotly debated topic, and lies at the core of the controversy. The poster structure is as follows: First, we explore the conflict and historical background and the players involved. Next, we'll analyze the different feasible strategies that each player can take. Lastly, we'll evaluate the best alternative for both parties and determine future situations that could arise.