A great example of looking at things from a different perspective was exemplified at the recent North Aleutian Basin Energy Fisheries forum held by the University of Alaska.
The goal of the meeting was to help facilitate discussion about possible future energy development in the North Aleutian Basin and encourage dialogue between key stakeholders prior to any lease sale in the area.
Fishermen, geologists, mayors, Native Alaskans, economists, environmentalists, educators, and others had the chance to discuss opportunities, present their concerns, and get everything out on the table. University President Hamilton said it was an historic day and encouraged all participants to listen to one another. It was sage advice.
Contributions to make the event a reality came from numerous RDC members: At-Sea Processors, Bristol Bay Native Corporation, Peter Pan Seafoods, Shell, and others.
Ironically, Shell was singled out for criticism by some members of the environmental community for contributing to the event despite not owning one federal lease (or even having plans to bid on a lease) in the area. I don’t understand why they were critical as this event was called for by members of both the energy and fisheries industries, as well as by coastal community leaders. The event was open to the public and many diverse opinions were presented. I guess some groups prefer to polarize issues and not listen to different perspectives. Fortunately, I don’t fall into that camp.
At the end of the conference, participants walked away encouraged with the relationships that had been formed, the dialogue that had begun, and the future channels of communication that had been opened. This event was a huge success.
Indeed, looking at things from differing perspectives is something we should all try to emulate. If you’re not able to understand other people’s perspectives, why should you expect them to understand yours?
Each of Alaska’s resource industries is represented in the RDC membership — oil and gas, mining, fishing, tourism, and timber. We also have as members each of the regional Native Corporations, support firms, local communities, labor, and many others. All bring different experiences to the table and, as Alaskans, we realize it is important that all perspectives are respected.
In Alaska, there is a process that every industry must follow, regardless if it’s mining, fishing, oil and gas, or others. Indeed, RDC members across all resource sectors have more in common than you’d think, and that’s the real strength behind this organization. From the Endangered Species Act to the National Environmental Policy Act to the Clean Air/Water Acts, each industry must navigate the permitting process and responsibly operate. All must adhere to state and federal statutes.
As Alaskans, we are all in this together.
RDC has never, nor will ever, take a position that benefits one industry at the expense of another. Our members pride themselves at the open dialogue that is often had, and the requirement that is placed, on ensuring sound science, rather than emotion, is the basis for any decision, even with apparently conflicting interests at stake. We also pride ourselves on listening, and ultimately learning from one another. The experiences of one industry often help others. This couldn’t occur without different perspectives.
Another different way of looking at things can be seen by the new layout of this newsletter. Carl Portman, the long-time writer and editor of the Resource Review has worked hard to give a new look and feel to this publication. Personally, I’m excited.
Shoot us a note at resources@akrdc.org and let us know your thoughts. Also, if you’re interested in writing a guest opinion for the Resource Review, please let us know. We’re always looking for different perspectives!
Alaska’s mining industry is being targeted by drastic and deceptive measures that would prevent new mine developments and shut down existing mines. RDC encourages you to oppose these measures by joining the Alaskans Against the Mining Shutdown coalition. Sign up by visiting Alaskans Against the Mining Shurtdown
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