Trump Revives Keystone XL and Dakota Access Pipelines, Reversing Obama-Era Policies
In a major reversal of Obama-era environmental policies, President Trump has signed executive orders to advance the construction of the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines. These highly controversial projects, which had been halted under the previous administration, are designed to transport vast amounts of crude oil from Canada and North Dakota, respectively.
Keystone XL Pipeline
The Keystone XL pipeline, a joint venture between TC Energy and the Government of Alberta, would transport approximately 830,000 barrels of oil per day from Alberta, Canada, to Steele City, Nebraska. The project has been met with fierce opposition from environmental groups, who argue that it would contribute to climate change by increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Native American tribes have also raised concerns about the potential impact on their land and water resources.
Despite these objections, President Trump has consistently supported the Keystone XL pipeline, touting its economic benefits and job creation potential. He has argued that the pipeline will create thousands of jobs and boost the U.S. economy.
Dakota Access Pipeline
The Dakota Access Pipeline, owned by Energy Transfer Partners, would transport approximately 570,000 barrels of oil per day from North Dakota’s Bakken Shale formation to Patoka, Illinois. The project has also faced significant opposition from environmental groups and Native American tribes.
Environmentalists argue that the pipeline would pose a significant risk to water resources, as it crosses beneath the Missouri River and other sensitive waterways. Native American tribes have expressed concerns about the potential impact on their cultural and spiritual sites.
Reviving the Projects
President Trump’s executive orders direct federal agencies to expedite the approval process for both pipelines. The orders also seek to streamline environmental reviews and limit the ability of states and tribes to block the projects.
The revival of these pipelines is a major victory for the oil and gas industry. It is also a setback for environmental groups and Native American tribes, who have vowed to continue fighting the projects.
Legal Challenges
The legality of President Trump’s executive orders is likely to be challenged in court. Environmental groups and Native American tribes have already filed lawsuits to block the pipelines. The outcome of these legal challenges could determine the ultimate fate of the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines.
