I agree to some extent, but did he really need to shut the pipeline down on day one to fulfill that promise? How about an EO to put together a team to research the best solution to the issue; a transition plan. While I agree we must ween ourselves off fossil fuel dependence, it isn't going to happen over night. If we're looking to protect the environment, then isn't the pipeline a better solution?
Google: In terms of barrels spilled per year, transporting oil and gas by truck is the worst method of transportation. Trucks spilled more oil and gas than both rail and pipeline, averaging around 326 barrels per million tons moved every mile. Road transportation is also closer to the general public.