Statement on the Obama Administration's Denial of Keystone XL Permit

For Immediate Release,
January 18, 2012

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Carroll Muffett, President of the Center for International Environmental Law, issued the following statement today in response to the announcement that the White House has denied a permit for TransCanada's controversial Keystone XL pipeline and determined that the pipeline is not in the national interest of the United States:

The President has rejected Keystone XL because Congressional deadlines leave insufficient time to properly determine whether the pipeline is in the national interest. People around the world have rejected Keystone XL because the only justifiable determination has long been clear. Keystone XL would contribute to massive increases in greenhouse gas emissions, undermine our national commitment to lead the world in the fight against climate change, and slow the vital transition to a clean energy economy. No one who understands the urgent realities of global climate change could reasonably consider this pipeline in the best interest of the United States, humankind or the planet we all share. CIEL applauds today's decision as a victory for the environment and those who defend it everywhere.

Media Contact:

Carroll Muffett,
Mobile +1 202-425-2934, Office +1.202.742.5772, or cmuffett@ciel.org

About CIEL

Founded in 1989, the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL), www.ciel.org, is uses international law and institutions to protect the environment, promote human health, and ensure a just and sustainable society. With offices in Washington, DC and Geneva, CIEL's staff of international attorneys work in the areas of human rights and the environment, climate change, law and communities, chemicals, trade and the environment, international environmental governance, biodiversity and international financial institutions by providing legal counsel and advocacy, policy research and capacity building.