Dear CLVH,
This is an interesting question and it made me realize that even after
10 years of studying economic “development” in Latin America I have
very little to offer in the way of pragmatic solutions. That is, I
have all kinds of idealistic goals about progressive social change
that few people would find realistic given the current economic model
being systematized via globalization.
So, let me walk you through my thought process here before I directly
tackle your question.
· Ideally, we should live less excessive lifestyles that consider the
long-term, global consequences of our actions.
· Realistically, we are unlikely to change, as a society, until we are
forced to face the consequences of our actions
· Ideally, oil companies should not destroy the environment or
interfere in the lifestyles of indigenous peoples who do not wish to
change.
· Realistically, oil companies can only supply their product by
sucking it out of the ground in the places where it exists. Their
main objective is to make a profit and that goal is supported by our
demand for their product. They will continue to work toward that goal
as long as we permit them to do so.
That said, let me try to actually address your question.
I would recommend that the oil companies work with the indigenous
people in the area to find alternative routes for the pipeline. This
may mean a higher cost for the companies if they have to reroute the
pipeline a few miles in different directions, but I would suggest that
they could play up their willingness to negotiate in order to receive
good press. I can just see the advertisement:
Pan of the rainforest with soft traditional music playing in the
background (preferably cuatro, a four stringed Venezuelan instrument)
Voiceover: “Conoco Cares. When we at Conoco discovered that a planned
petroleum pipeline would disrupt the homes of the local Warao people,
we took it upon ourselves to find a solution that would work for
everyone.”
Cut to a scene of oil company people and indigenous folks looking over
blueprints together. Maybe have a village elder point to something on
the blueprint. Everyone smiling. Indigenous homes in the background.
Cut to a small girl hugging an oil executive.
Voiceover: “Choose Conoco, because Conoco cares.
Ok, I’m starting to scare myself now, but you get the idea.
You can see how British Petroleum publicized their pipeline project
at:
http://www.bp.com/location_rep/caspian/index.asp
“In a world where the forces of globalisation appear to be having a
significant and increasing impact, all major global companies – not
just in the oil industry – are seeking to define their role within the
countries where they invest and operate.
This report is one of several initiatives we have already taken to
promote transparency in relation to the major projects we are carrying
out in the Caspian region. Our approach, as described in this report,
has been to promote transparency in our own operations and in the
wider context in which we are working. We have made considerable
efforts to consult with national and local authorities, NGOs,
academics, the media, and most importantly local people, to ensure
that all concerns about the project have been identified and
addressed.”
Royal Dutch Shell says:
“Shell UK Stanlow has created a pond as part of efforts to actively
manage its land for biodiversity. The pond is used by schools to give
local children the opportunity to learn about wetland biodiversity.”
See the photograph at:
http://www.shell.com/home/Framework?siteId=shellreport2002-en&FC1=&FC2=&FC3=%2Fshellreport2002-en%2Fhtml%2Fiwgen%2Fcase_studies%2Fcs_diversity.html&FC4=&FC5=
If the oil companies can be convinced that they can get good press,
they might be more willing to find a less destructive alternative to
their original plan. Ultimately they can only do what we let them get
away with.
I hope this has been helpful. Please feel free to request a
clarification if you require additional assistance on this question.
It was very interesting putting myself in the position of the oil
companies…It really made me think.
Saludos,
gitana |
,
0 Comments
)