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For Immediate Release
Oil Drilling in the Arctic Refuge Won't Lower Gas Prices
Statement of Robert Dewey, Vice President of Government Relations Defenders of Wildlife
WASHINGTON – "As regular as the coming of spring, a rise in gas prices has spurred renewed calls for opening the Arctic Refuge to oil drilling. But claims that drilling in the Refuge will solve our nation’s energy woes simply do not add up.
"A recent Energy Information Administration study, requested by drilling proponents, indicates that even if the Arctic Refuge were opened to drilling today, our nation would still be importing more than 60 percent of our oil, only 3 percent less than if the Refuge remained protected. The same EIA study states that OPEC would likely countermand any potential price impact of oil from the Arctic Refuge by reducing its exports an equal amount.
"It is also important to note that, while America consumes 25 percent of the world’s oil, only 3 percent of it can be found under US soil, meaning we are never going to be able to drill our way to energy independence.
"Moreover, the US Geological Survey has determined that the Arctic Refuge would produce only six months worth of oil, which oil executives themselves admit wouldn’t even reach market for another ten years.
" America needs a comprehensive energy plan for the future; not more of the same tired and discounted arguments for drilling in the Arctic Refuge."
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Defenders of Wildlife is one of the nation's most progressive advocates for wildlife and habitat, and was named as one of America's Top 100 Charities by Worth magazine. With more than 450,000 members and supporters, Defenders is an effective voice for wildlife and habitat. To learn more about Defenders of Wildlife, please visit www.defenders.org.
