Trump issues permit approving Keystone XL pipeline construction

The Trump administration issued a presidential permit on Friday approving the construction of the controversial Keystone XL pipeline, The Associated Press reports.

President Trump had earlier signed an executive order to move the project forward, arguing that the pipeline would create thousands of jobs, although the State Department expects it to eventually only employ 35 people after construction is completed. The $8 billion pipeline has also faced fierce protest from environmental activists, who point to its use of Alberta's carbon-laden tar sands as a contributor to climate change. "We cannot let the Trump administration undo the progress that people all over the country have made to ensure we avoid catastrophic climate change," said Greenpeace's Diana Best.

Former President Obama blocked the project in 2015, claiming it would contribute to climate change and would not reduce fuel prices for American drivers.

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