Offshore Drilling Considered Again Off South Carolina Coast
CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is revisiting offshore drilling along the South Carolina coastline as part of its new five-year plan to assess potential oil drilling sites. This move comes amidst a national push for increased energy production, notably supported by former President Donald Trump’s “drill, baby, drill” campaign.
However, South Carolinians have made their opposition clear, uniting across party lines against offshore drilling. Local and state moratoriums currently prohibit drilling, but federal interest persists under the National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Program.
Taylor Allred, director of the Coastal Conservation League’s energy and climate program, emphasizes the economic risk posed by drilling. South Carolina’s economy is significantly dependent on its coastal health, with its $20 billion tourism sector and $6 billion marine economy employing around 80,000 people. Allred warns that drilling could jeopardize this economic stability in pursuit of short-term profit.
Environmental concerns are also paramount. Allred highlights the potential damage to fragile ecosystems, risking endangered species and the threat of devastating oil spills. He specifically notes the Blake Plateau, home to one of the largest deep-sea coral habitats globally, which supports vital fisheries crucial for the local economy.
Currently, the BOEM’s proposal is open for public comment, with a deadline set for June 16. Allred encourages residents to voice their opposition to offshore drilling, asserting that even brief comments can significantly contribute to safeguarding South Carolina’s coastal environment.
For those wishing to submit feedback, further details are available on the BOEM’s website.
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