Royal Dutch Shell could start its controversial oil drilling
operations in Point Hope, Alaska, in 2002. Greenpeace and other
eco-friendly organizations have manifested their disapproval,
stating that such an action would affect the balance of a unique
ecosystem. Oil drilling is currently one of the hottest topics.
It has even managed to separate the members of the community,
the Guardian Some say the financial aspect cannot be overlooked,
since Shell's activity in the area can be quite beneficial from
this point of view. Billions of gallons of oil located beneath
the Beaufort and Chukchi Seas represent quite a tempting target.
The wellbeing of Point Hope's indigenous people is now
correlated with a strong Inupiat tradition of “living off the
sea.” There are no modern roads, flashy buildings and high-tech
improvements. Their ways of obtaining profit are centuries old
and risk-free. Shell might be able to change this in the near
future. Twelve earth-friendly organizations fear a potential oil
spill with devasta