Obama and the Environment: What He Can Do

Global warming has seen the opening of previously ice-bound and impassable northern waters and a burst of new interest, from Russia to Alaska, in extracting oil from Arctic seabeds. One way to prevent an ill-regulated drilling spree would be to ratify the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, a treaty designed to manage a crowded ocean – including disputes over Arctic oil as well as international fishing and ocean pollution. The pact dates to the Ronald Reagan presidency but has gone unsigned due to continued concern from congressmen over its hindering our Navy. Some treaty experts say the time is right for ratification, but the president must make the case.

For access to exclusive gear videos, celebrity interviews, and more, subscribe on YouTube!

Back to top