The current U.S. oil consumption is 21 million barrels per day; we are heavily reliant on offshore drilling to keep up with our consumption. This essential volume poses questions and provides answers from both sides of each debate. Readers hear pro versus con facts and figures, and are able to use critical thinking skills to form their own views. Essays debate the benefits, consequences, and government policies of offshore drilling. Fantastic essay sources include the Natural Resources Defense Council, Oceana, Newt Gingrich, and Humberto Fontova.