Economic developments brings more and more environmental concerns these days. It is the role of the decision makers to ensure that things are solved in the best way. Obama now faces a complex situation, in which, he has to decide between the easily achievable economic growth and a healthy environment. Keystone XL pipeline will bring new employments into the economy, and this will solve one of the biggest problems existing in the country. However the environment threat that the pipelines may produce raises people’s concern.
This conflict is more complex than the others because it also involves political issues. The opponents to the project emphasized on the relationship of the decision and Obama’s responsibility as a President. If Obama ignores the protest, he will go against his stand in the election on environmental protection. However, if he ignores the positive effect that the plan will give to the economy, he may create negative image in the public’s eyes. The plan also have a great impact as it holds concern of two countries, both USA and Canada. The solution to this problem should be acceptable to both the countries.
Even though the plan will create jobs and energy independence, as Kessler said, these jobs are not sustainable. It would be better to find other ways to create more sustainable jobs than creating temporary job through plan that will give harm to the environment. Whether to be hated by the future generation or secure the president position through creating jobs now is Obama’s own choice.
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