The XL Pipeline will transport tar sand oil from Canada down to Nebraska. The pipeline runs through farms and Native American territory, hindering their individual property rights. XL travels over sensitive lands such as wetlands and aquifers where spills can damage endangered species' habitat and contaminate potable water.
Economically, the current price of crude oil makes it impossible for the pipeline to produce positive revenues. The capital labor added to the economy will only bolster employment temporarily.
Instead, the Department of Energy should invest funds into alternative clean energy sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal. Development into sustainable energy will provide lasting jobs, promote a healthy environment, and lessen the country's reliance on fossil fuels.