WILLOW PROJECT

GRACE VAN BORTEL

Most people have heard of the Willow Project on social media, but what is it really all about? The Willow Project is a proposed oil and gas drilling site on U.S. federal land in Alaska. ConocoPhillips, a Houston, Texas-based oil company, owns it. Despite President Biden’s promise to end oil drilling on public land, on March 13, 2023, permission was granted to the Willow Project to begin drilling on a scaledback version.

There has been much controversy surrounding the Willow Project. Opposition from environmental groups who are concerned about carbon pollution filed lawsuits to prevent the company from proceeding. Local Alaskans who live close by are concerned about the impact on their health and the environment. Other Alaskans favor the project for the increase in jobs and the economy. Those in favor of the Willow Project feel that the oil can be drilled cleaner than offshore sites and will increase U.S. energy security by not relying on energy sources from other countries.

1. REPLACE PLASTIC DISPOSABLE SHOPPING bags with something fashionably reusable. When you are out and about running errands, try to remember to bring your reusable bag. This could be any type of bag, such as totes, which will also give you a more fashionable look while out shopping. You may have noticed that most stores in our area have changed from plastic to paper and offer reusable bags for a small price.

2. REUSE AND REDUCE SINGLE-USE PRODUCTS such as paper towels, makeup cloths, cotton pads, and paper or plastic dishware. It’s hard to stay completely away from using these items, but think about longevity and purpose. Some single items can be replaced with alternatives such as washable fabric cloths instead of paper.

3. GET ON THE WATER BOTTLE TREND. Use a reusable water bottle instead of plastic and fill it at home or a water fountain. This is an effortless way to avoid unnecessary plastic waste from bottles. As you have probably seen, water bottle trends range from Hydro Flasks to Stanelys but honestly anything reusable will do!

4. BE SUSTAINABLE AT STARBUCKS. Most of us are guilty of getting our favorite beverage at Starbucks. Starbucks is working towards being more environmentally friendly too! If you give them your reusable cup, they will put your drink in it for you as long as it is clean and big enough for your drink. You can purchase fun mugs at every store; you can even use stars for them too!

sustainable brands since basics will most likely always stay the same and will last you much longer.

6. CHECK YOUR PRODUCTS FOR A CLIMATEFRIENDLY PLEDGE and if they are cruelty-free. You may have noticed that many products, such as food and hygiene, have small print labels that state the makers’ policy concerning if they are climate pledge friendly or cruelty-free. Climate pledge friendly means that the product meets the criteria to be environmentally friendly in some way, such as being recyclable and made with environmentally friendly materials. Cruelty-free means that there is no testing on animals in the making of the product.

7. PLANT A TREE. Are you looking for a fun activity? Look no further than planting a tree, and guess what!? Early spring is one of the best times to plant a tree. Sadly, a high number of trees are chopped down every year.

8. TAKE A WALK. With the warmer weather coming, try walking or riding your bike to nearby areas instead of driving. This is also great exercise. Think about alternatives to driving a car such as carpooling with friends. Take a bus or train rather than flying or driving on trips.

On April 3, 2023, a federal judge ruled against the environmental lawsuits and said that the company might begin building the necessary buildings immediately but could not drill for oil or gas while further legal action is expected to take place in the courts. Time will tell whether the Willow Project will succeed in oil production. •

5. STAY AWAY FROM FAST FASHION and try ethical fashion that you can feel good about for a long time! Fashion is a massive part of our lives, and many people are not aware of its effects on the environment and how it can be sourced unethically. Avoid fast fashion brands such as Shien and Zara, and many others that are not ethical. If you are not sure about your favorite brand, a quick Google search can make you feel at ease. Tip; buy your basics from

9. DISPOSE OF LITTER AND RECYCLE when possible. Unfortunately, littering is a common problem today. It can harm the environment, especially for animals who might nibble on a piece of sharp metal from your soda can. Make sure your trash gets to the trash can or recycling bin. If you see trash, pick it up. Just to be safe when touching others’ trash, wear gloves.

10. BE MINDFUL OF WATER USE. This is simpler than it may sound. Turn off the water when you are not using it, such as while brushing your teeth. Hop into the shower as soon as you start the water. You may be surprised and unaware of how often water is left running when unnecessary. •