Obama Administration Reportedly Lifting Moratorium on California Offshore Fracking
Statement by Wenonah Hauter, Executive Director, Food & Water Watch
Washington, D.C. — "The Obama administration is reportedly set to publish an assessment next week that says California offshore fracking poses no significant threat to the environment. In the waning days of his administration, he appears to be doubling down on fracking, instead of providing climate leadership and protecting our communities and our environment. This move paves the way for offshore fracking permits that were previously frozen and the dumping of toxic wastewater directly into the Pacific Ocean where Californians swim, fish, and surf.
"It’s clear that Americans want an inspiring new vision for our energy system, with more than half opposed to fracking in recent polling. The president continues to indicate that he is not the person to fulfill that vision. It’s a vision that can only be achieved by keeping fossil fuels in the ground and moving swiftly to a system driven by energy efficiency and renewables."
Wenonah Hauter is author of the new book Frackopoly: The Battle for the Future of Energy and the Environment, which looks at the policies and influence peddling that have favored widespread fracking over truly clean energy.
Food & Water Watch champions healthy food and clean water for all. We stand up to corporations that put profits before people, and advocate for a democracy that improves people’s lives and protects our environment.
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Contact: Darcey Rakestraw, 202-683-2467; [email protected]