AAPG Statements

Allowing petroleum exploration and development in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) coastal plain, one of the most prospective areas of the country, is a subject of intense debate. Bolstering domestic energy production in an environmentally responsible way is the major issue.

The Nation's resources can be explored and developed in an environmentally safe and sound manner.

As fossil fuel demand increases worldwide, increased use will result in a rise in CO2 emissions to the atmosphere. Governments are calling for technologies to reduce atmospheric emissions from fossil fuel combustion.

Regulatory oversight of hydraulic fracturing treatments for shale gas, coalbed methane and other hydrocarbon wells that may occur near zones of potable water are currently regulated at the state level. Federal legislative efforts to regulate hydraulic fracturing are not necessary because the States have been successfully regulating this process for at least 50 years.

Access to the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska (NPR-A), one of the most prospective areas of the country, for petroleum exploration and development is important to the Nation’s future.

More supportive policies from the government in the United States should allow industry to develop the necessary supply of natural gas for the growing need in the US and in all of North America.

Additional areas available for leasing should include those currently under moratoria, off the Eastern, Western, and Florida coasts, where they can be shown to have economic benefit and acceptable environmental risk.

Federal wetlands conservation efforts need clarity and stability to improve accessibility to the wetlands for environmentally sound development of natural resources and other human needs.