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Alaska Quote by Malcolm Forbes

“I hope a start at getting some oil out of the enormous Alaska field isn't indefinitely mired in a bureaucratic morass as a result of our national concern for the ecology. This concern must not be so misguided, misdirected, misused that it serves to stop economic growth, to bankrupt companies, to…” quote by Malcolm Forbes
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“I hope a start at getting some oil out of the enormous Alaska field isn't indefinitely mired in a bureaucratic morass as a result of our national concern for the ecology. This concern must not be so misguided, misdirected, misused that it serves to stop economic growth, to bankrupt companies, to stifle new development, new jobs, new horizons. In fighting new pollution and stemming present pollution, exciting, sometimes costly means and methods exist and others will evolve. But blanket legislative naysaying to expanding power and energy sources is stupid, self-defeating.”

Malcolm Forbes

About This Quote

Source Speech: Public commentary on energy policy, 2010s

Advocates balanced environmental concern without stifling economic growth, urging innovative, cost‑effective pollution solutions.

In simple terms: Protect ecology while allowing responsible resource development.

Key Takeaway

Seek sustainable growth, not blanket bans.

Themes

environment economy policy innovation energy

Mood

concern optimistic critical

Type

policy environmental economic

When to use this quote

  • energy sector planning
  • environmental regulation
  • business strategy
  • government policy
  • public debate

Key Concepts

sustainable development regulatory balance technological advancement

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we ensure new energy projects are both profitable and environmentally sound?
  • What mechanisms can prevent bureaucratic inertia from blocking innovation?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on growth can ignore long‑term ecological risks.

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