Oil Flows on Keystone XL’s Southern Leg, But Link to Canada Awaits Obama Administration

But the larger northern portion of the project, the link from the oil sands of Alberta, Canada to Cushing, continues to await approval by President Barack Obama’s administration. (See related, “Keystone XL Pipeline Marks New Battle Line in Oklahoma.“) The project plan was re-routed through Nebraska to avoid the sensitive Sandhills ecosystem. But concern over the greenhouse gas emissions impact of providing a route to market for more carbon-intensive crude from the oil sands has invigorated an international network of climate activists.  (See related: Pictures: Animals That Blocked thePath of the Keystone XL.“)

Observers expect a decision early this year.  The tea leaves so far provide conflicting evidence as to which way the president is leaning. A former national

Create your free account to continue reading

No credit card required. Unlimited access to free content.
Or get a Premium Subscription to access the best of Nat Geo - just $19
SUBSCRIBE

Read This Next

'World’s worst shipwreck' was bloodier than we thought
World’s first ultrasounds of wild manta rays reveal a troubling truth
Titanic was found during secret Cold War Navy mission

Go Further

Subscriber Exclusive Content

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet