The next few decades will be a time of immense change. Over one third of the energy currently consumed in the US comes from oil, and supplies are dwindling. Although supplies of natural gas and coal are relatively plentiful, most scientists believe the carbon dioxide released during their use is causing significant damage to the environment. Even though conservation will remain a focus, energy demand will continue to grow. How do we meet this demand? Simple solutions such as covering Arizona with solar panels or replacing all coal plants with nuclear fission reactors clearly won’t work. A viable energy policy must balance the technical, environmental, economic, social, and political challenges. For the project, you will explore the history and effects of a relevant state or national energy policy decision. Choose one of the following topics:
Drilling for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge has been a perennial debate. It has sparked slogans such as “Drill here, drill now!” and “Drill, baby, drill!” in past presidential elections. The Trump administration opened the region for oil exploration by auctioning leases for drilling rights, but these leases were temporarily suspended on June 1, 2021, and most firms have since canceled their leases. Review the history of the region. Explore in depth both sides of the debate, including the potential benefits of drilling in the region and the probable consequences of that drilling to the local environment. In light of what you have found, recommend a course of action for the region.
In 2006, the California Legislature passed the California Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32). Review the history of AB 32, including what it is meant to accomplish and why it was passed. Explore in depth the current implementation of AB 32, including both short term and long term effects on both the economy and the environment.
If you have another topic in mind, send me an email and we can discuss it.
Write a paper addressing your chosen topic. The paper should be around 2-3 pages in length (standard font, standard margins, double-spaced) and contain at least three references in addition to the textbook. The paper must be two full pages at minimum. Credible online sources are acceptable. You must cite references throughout the paper and include a reference list at the end of the paper. You may use whatever format style (MLA, APA, others) you are most comfortable with, but be consistent. The rubric that will be used to grade your paper is located on the Canvas website.
DO NOT place your name anywhere on the first draft. Instead, put the last four digits of your student ID number at the top of the first page. Submit your paper in Word format by the end of the day on Friday, Apr. 26.
