The future existence of all living and non-living things found here on planet earth depends on how the environment as a whole is treated. As human beings, we have our wants and needs, as well as our hopes and dreams for the future. Our wants, needs and dreams guide our actions and influence how we treat and interact with the environment around us. We have undoubtedly achieved countless results using the resources of the environment around us, but we often fail to consider the possible consequences of our results. What one person sees as an achievement may be seen in a completely different light by someone else living nearby, or even on the other side of the world. Because our actions affect the environment and the environment affects us, environmental issues are relevant to all of us. Oil extraction is an issue that I personally believe is of great concern. When we extract oil, we are able to meet the needs of our oil-based economy, which can be seen as a positive thing, since we are promoting some type of economic growth. Despite the benefits that can come from drilling, I tend to find that the problems we are creating are far greater than the benefits we can benefit from. When we extract oil, we exploit the land, making it essentially beneficial to a single agenda; the agenda of the oil companies. While we destroy the land beyond recovery, we also create pollution in the air we breathe and the water we drink. I don't know anyone who would choose to live in the toxic environment we are creating, instead of a pollution-free environment. I guess my concern lies in the fact that we tend to place more value on growth, material possessions and economic success than the quality of our lives and the environment we live in... middle of paper... a difference, not just in the case of Prudehoe and The Arctic Refuge, but in most cases of any environmental issue. Change can also be made by simply doing our part to reduce the amount of oil we can individually use. When we buy something, we can buy from companies that are doing their part to promote sustainability. Renewable energy sources are being developed, and if we continue to promote this development, there should be less concern about oil and gas drilling. The government also has the role of enforcing restrictions and promoting sustainability. We may not be able to make a difference overnight, but in the case of oil and gas drilling, I believe each of us can make a difference. Making changes to the way we are used to living can be a lot of work, but once these changes start to be made, I believe we will have a lot less to worry about.