Friends of the Earth responds to the Keystone XL Environmental Impact Statement

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today the State Department will release its Environmental Impact Statement for the controversial oleoducto Keystone XL. Below is a statement from Friends of the Earth President Erich Pica:

“The State Department’s environmental review of the Keystone XL pipeline is a farce. Since the beginning of the assessment, the oil industry has had a direct pipeline into the agency. Perhaps most frustrating, is the apparent collusion between the State Department, oil industry and the Canadian government.

In what could be perceived as eagerness to please the oil industry and Canadian government, the State Department is issuing this report amidst an ongoing investigation into conflicts of interest, and lying, by its contractor. It is unacceptable that the oil industry and a foreign government are better informed than the American Congress and its citizenry.

By letting the oil industry influence this process, Secretary Kerry is undermining his long-established reputation as a leader in the fight against climate change. President Obama can end this charade; sufficient scientific data exists to justify denying the Keystone XL pipeline. It is a simple matter of having the political will, and courage, to stand up to the oil industry. This decision is a defining moment in his environmental legacy.”

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Contactos:
Eric Dyson, Communications director, (202) 222-0730, [email protected]
Erich Pica, President, (202) 222-0739, é[email protected]