Question

several regions in the united states export petroleum to other regions. to export the petroleum, thousands of miles of pipelines have been constructed. often, these must be built on or near coastal wetland areas.
the graphs below show human consumption of petroleum in the usa from 1930 to 2010 and the area of coastal wetland in a particular region during the same time period.
which statement is the best solution to the potential problems related to the data shown in the two graphs?
the coastal wetlands should be cleared more rapidly to meet the higher demand for petroleum pipelines.
as future pipelines are built or restored, most of the coastal wetlands should be used for building roads and construction sites.
the coastal wetlands should be changed into riverways for shipping to help reduce the need for pipelines.
as future pipelines are built or restored, great care should be taken to avoid damaging too much of the coastal wetlands.

Explanation:

The first option would further damage wetlands. The second option misuses wetlands. The third option is not practical as wetlands have ecological value. The fourth option balances petroleum infrastructure (pipelines) and wetland conservation.

Answer:

As future pipelines are built or restored, great care should be taken to avoid damaging too much of the coastal wetlands.