Offshore Drilling: History and Environmental Impact

This chapter traces the evolution of offshore drilling in the U.S., from its 19th-century beginnings to the pivotal environmental disasters that shaped regulations. It highlights major oil spills, including those in Santa Barbara and Exxon Valdez, which ignited the environmental movement and led to significant legislative changes. The discussion culminates with the Deepwater Horizon spill, focusing on the resulting reforms and the ongoing challenges of regulating the oil industry.