north dakota
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Governor Burgum backs controversial carbon pipeline in North Dakota
North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, a potential Trump running mate, supports a $5.5 billion CO2 pipeline project, highlighting political and environmental tensions.
Richard Lardner and Jack Dura report for The Associated Press.
In short:
- Burgum, aiming to be Trump’s VP, supports the Midwest Carbon Express, a $5.5 billion CO2 pipeline aligned with Biden’s climate goals.
- The pipeline, collecting CO2 from Midwest ethanol plants, faces strong local opposition due to safety and land value concerns.
- Summit Carbon Solutions claims the pipeline will aid the fossil fuel industry and ensure CO2 storage, though critics argue it extends fossil fuel use.
Key quote:
“This has nothing to do with climate change. This has to do with markets.”
— Doug Burgum, Governor of North Dakota
Why this matters:
While the project promises significant environmental benefits by potentially cutting down on CO2 released into the atmosphere, it also faces considerable opposition. Critics argue that the focus should be on reducing emissions at the source rather than relying on carbon capture technology, which they see as a temporary fix rather than a sustainable solution.
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Credit: Pixabay
Burgum shifts from green policies to pro-oil stance amid Trump's campaign
Doug Burgum, North Dakota’s Republican governor, has transitioned from promoting environmentally friendly policies to supporting the oil and gas industry as he aids Donald Trump’s presidential campaign.
In short:
- Doug Burgum initially aimed for North Dakota to become carbon neutral by 2030, focusing on economic prosperity and energy independence.
- Despite promoting carbon neutrality, Burgum supports the fossil fuel industry, aligning with Trump's pro-oil agenda.
- Burgum’s advocacy includes organizing fundraisers for Trump and endorsing carbon capture projects tied to significant financial interests.
Key quote:
“I don’t think it’s so much that he changed his views as he’s an opportunist.”
— Scott Skokos, the executive director of the Dakota Resource Council
Why this matters:
The shift in Burgum's stance reflects the political influence of the fossil fuel industry and raises concerns about the sincerity of environmental commitments. Supporters argue that Burgum's stance is a necessary adaptation to safeguard jobs and the state's fiscal health. Critics, however, express concern that this pivot undermines the progress made towards sustainable energy and could have long-term environmental repercussions.
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Credit: David Thielen/Unsplash
North Dakota introduces a limited climate initiative focused on sustainable practices
North Dakota has announced a preliminary climate strategy targeting sustainability, though it notably excludes fossil fuel regulation.
In short:
- North Dakota, the nation's third largest oil producer launched a preliminary climate plan.
- The plan prioritizes tree planting, agricultural improvements and energy efficiency enhancements.
- Critics argue the plan avoids addressing significant emissions from the oil, gas, and coal industries.
- Future phases promise to tackle more challenging projects.
Key quote:
"There’s a big blind spot in that plan. They’re ignoring the fact that they have a highly emitting oil and gas and coal industry."
— Scott Skokos, Dakota Resource Council.
Why this matters:
Transitioning away from fossil fuels can pose economic challenges for regions like North Dakota that are heavily reliant on industries like coal mining or oil extraction.
Fossil fuel extraction and production often disproportionately impact marginalized communities, leading to issues such as air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and adverse health effects.
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Credit: Jessica Rockeman/Pixabay
North Dakota's diverse environmental views revealed in statewide poll
A recent poll in North Dakota shows a wide range of opinions on climate change, carbon capture, and electric vehicles, reflecting the state's varied environmental perspectives.
In short:
- The poll indicates that 43% of North Dakota voters see climate change as a serious problem, with a clear divide along party lines.
- Opinions on carbon capture and storage are mixed, with many residents undecided about its effectiveness in reducing climate change impacts.
- There is low interest in electric vehicles among North Dakotans, with 85% unlikely to purchase one next.
Key quote:
“We found that opinions on environmental issues have become highly politicized."
— Trevor Smith, chief research officer at WPA Intelligence
Why this matters:
The poll results highlight the complexity of environmental issues in North Dakota, a state known for its extreme weather and significant role in energy production. Understanding these diverse viewpoints is crucial for developing effective environmental policies and addressing climate change challenges.
Be sure to read Peter Dykstra’s 2022 piece: Pipeline politics.
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Photo by Jared Anders on Unsplash
North Dakota Environmental Quality to hold listening sessions on reducing pollution
North Dakota received a $3 million grant from the federal Environmental Protection Agency to support pollution-reduction efforts as part of the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program authorized in the Inflation Reduction Act.
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Burgum says every North Dakotan feels oil and gas impact
North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum on Tuesday praised the oil and gas industry for being a “powerhouse” and “game-changer” for the state’s economy, and bashed the White House for trying to shift the country away from climate change-causing fossil fuels.
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