Protecting and healing the environment are two of the biggest concerns when it comes to power consumption and construction. In North Carolina and elsewhere, politicians, activists and the general public often worry that developing communities and obtaining domestic sources of fuel will harm the local environment and have a devastating impact on native species and the climate as a whole. Not surprisingly, this may lead to construction disputes.
The proposed Atlantic Coast Pipeline has been a subject of contention among climate activists and developers for many years. While proponents, particularly investors for the project, say that the natural gas pipeline will open up countless jobs for people in the U.S. and reduce our dependence on foreign fuel sources, others are adamant that construction of the pipeline will disrupt or destroy the ecosystems surrounding hundreds of streams and rivers. The governor of North Carolina is known for supporting the pipeline, but he is opposed to plans for gas and oil mining off the state’s coast.
Climate activists claim that offshore drilling will introduce the risk of an oil disaster in North Carolina waters, as well as disrupt the tourism and fishing industries, which generate billions of dollars in revenue for the state.
These disputes are good examples of similar disputes that may arise when a new housing or shopping development is proposed near fragile ecosystems or when communities attempt to resolve the problem of finding clean, affordable sources of energy. There are no easy solutions, but it is to be hoped that construction litigation can be resolved to benefit both the environment and the community.
Source: Energy News Network, “N.C. governor stuck between a pipeline and offshore drilling plan,” Elizabeth Ouzts, Feb. 8, 2018