Breaking News: Shell announces pause in Alaska drilling programme

Earthjustice President, Trip Van Noppen, issued this statement:

“Shell did the only thing it could do—suspend Arctic drilling and halt operations for oil exploration this summer. Whether it was the Kulluk’s grounding, the problems both drilling operations had with Arctic weather and ice, or the total failure of their oil spill containment system, Shell’s drilling effort last summer demonstrated with vivid clarity that the oil industry is not ready to drill safely in the Arctic Ocean.

“The administration should take the time it needs to perform a thorough assessment of Shell’s operations last summer, rather than a rushed review that fails to address the systemic failures—both of the industry and the Department of the Interior. The Obama administration should now suspend all permitting and further activities related to Arctic drilling in America’s waters until it completes a thorough review and determines a more responsible approach for the Arctic Ocean.”