EDITOR: The Canadian oil sands pipeline is not only the most environmentally destructive venture in our quest for energy, it will forestall renewable energy development and conservation measures, hence increasing our reliance on foreign oil and our trade deficits.
It underscores the shameless disregard for our planet and its inhabitants by the energy cartels, which have fabricated data and science to promote fossil fuel expansion and block renewable energy development.
Despite the industry's assurances to the contrary, oil sand mining devastates hundreds of square miles of pristine land and contaminates ground water while adding still more pollution through the large quantities of energy required for its extraction.
Its job creation would be minor compared to those that could be achieved through alternative energy development.
Our president now has the opportunity to halt this project and reverse our destructive environmental course. If he does this, history will treat him well, even if it costs him an election. If he defaults on this duty, he will be remembered for his sellout to our planet's survival.
ROBERT SETTGAST
San Rafael
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