President Biden curtails fossil fuel extraction in Alaska, aiming to preserve the region's pristine habitats.
Maxine Joselow reports for The Washington Post.
In short:
- The new policy limits future oil and gas drilling in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska, focusing on conservation over extraction.
- A contentious road project intended to support a northern Alaska mining venture is also blocked, prioritizing ecological and indigenous concerns.
- Despite the measures' potential to stir political and legal battles, they underscore a strategic pivot towards environmental preservation and climate advocacy.
Key quote:
"Alaska's majestic and rugged lands and waters are among the most remarkable and healthy landscapes in the world, sustaining a vibrant subsistence economy for Alaska Native communities. These natural wonders demand our protection."
— President Joe Biden
Why this matters:
Biden's decision directly impacts health by safeguarding one of the most significant natural habitats, which supports not only wildlife but also the subsistence needs of local communities. Read more: Ending toxic threats to Alaska from plastics and petrochemicals.
