Allowing Shell to Rush Back into Arctic Drilling Could Be Disastrous For Climate, Pristine Ocean

WASHINGTON (April 10, 2015) – The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management today determined that Shell’s exploration plan for drilling in the Arctic Ocean is complete, clearing the way for a full review by the agency. BOEM now has 30 days to complete its review. As part of that process, BOEM has announced the beginning of two brief public comment periods on Shell’s plan.

The following is a statement from Niel Lawrence, Alaska Director of the Natural Resources Defense Council:

“Drilling in the Arctic is a recipe for disaster. The harsh conditions in the region make it all-but impossible to clean up the inevitable oil spills. The department’s rush to allow Shell back to the Arctic is foolhardy, misguided and wrong. We need to heed the warnings of 2012, when Shell demonstrated so clearly that it is the gang that cannot drill safely. Drilling in the Arctic also contradicts the urgent need to combat climate change, preserve our natural heritage and protect our planet for future generations.”