Statement of Earthworks energy program director Bruce Baizel
“Unfortunately, allowing the use of fracking within a part of the George Washington National Forest is part of the Obama Administration’s embrace of oil and gas drilling, despite the water, air and climate pollution that is proven to come along with it.
In the face of dire warnings from the world’s foremost climate scientists about the need to phase out fossil fuels by 2100 and an authoritative body of science demonstrating the health impacts faced by communities living near oil and gas development, this administration continues to promote an 'all of the above' energy policy rather than a swift transition to renewable energy.
Nearby communities, local governments, the Governor of Virginia, every major water utility in the DC area, and the Forest Service’s original recommendation had it right when they opposed the use of hydraulic fracturing in the George Washington National Forest.
The President can protect the climate and public health, or he can continue to promote fracking. He cannot do both.”
