Environmental+Awareness

One of Obama’s campaign promises was to ensure that environmental protection is carried out. The way he handled the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico begs to differ, however. A blowout preventer failed and the oil line was broken, releasing over 206 million gallons of oil into the gulf of Mexico. President Obama let the oil companies handle it, hoping they would do their best to stop it as soon as possible. Instead they tried to reconnect the line to save money, letting more oil flow into the gulf. Although BP is now taking more action, the project has costed $8 billion so far, not including all of the jobs that were lost due to the spill. Marine life such as whales, turtles, fish, sharks, and much more are dying, throwing the food chain out of order. The last burning procedure was on July 20th, but all of the chemicals released harm the environment. Since July 15th, no oil has leaked from the pipeline, but BP still has approximately 28,400 personnel, more than 4,050 vessels, and dozens of aircraft to ensure safety. Other actions have been taken in the country and globally. Commercials have raised awareness by using television and radio letting people know how to conserve energy. The news also expands environmental awareness and actions that the government is taking. Under Obama, more government spending has gone towards the environment. On February, 17, 2009 Obama signed the Recovery Act, which gave more money to the EPA in order to advance science. Now the EPA manages projects and programs that total $7 billion to further the cause. The internet also provides awareness; the Local Government Environmental Assistance Network invites citizens to join “millions of others in using products and practices that save energy, save money, and protect the environment. Together, we can all make a difference. If every American household took part in the pledge, we would save more than 110 billion kilowatt hours of electricity, more than $18 billion in annual energy costs, and prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions of more than 18 million cars.” With quick access to such statistics and environmental groups that continue to thrive, many are able to take action. Alternative energy sources are still being researched, but in the meantime the American auto industries provide more fuel efficient cars. media type="youtube" key="XLiqvZOP8TY?fs=1" height="385" width="640"