Arctic Drilling Poses Risks, Requires Planning

A new study by the Pew Environment Group recommends reforms to close gaps in oversight, response planning and risk assessment associated with proposed oil and gas development in Alaska's Arctic Ocean. The study, "Oil Spill Response in the U.S. Arctic Ocean: Unexamined Risks, Unacceptable Consequences," is the most comprehensive analysis yet on challenges to preventing and containing spills along the nation's northernmost coast. A bill now before the U.S. Senate would strengthen review and oversight not just in the Arctic but in all U.S. coastal waters.