Biden, whose term ends in two weeks, has said he is using powers under the federal Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to protect coastal areas along the East and West coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and parts of the Gulf from further leasing for oil and natural gas drilling. Bering Sea areas in northern Alaska.
“My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses and beachgoers have long known – drilling on these coasts can cause permanent damage to places we hold dear and are not needed to meet our nation’s energy needs,” Biden said in a statement. .
“As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and as we transition to a green energy economy, it’s time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren,” Biden said.
Biden’s orders will not affect large areas of the Gulf of Mexico, where most U.S. offshore drilling takes place, but they will protect the coastlines of California, Florida and other states from further drilling.
These orders from Biden could be difficult for Trump to reverse, as it would likely require legislation passed by Congress.
Trump has vowed to strengthen what he calls America’s “energy dominance” around the world, as he pushes for more oil and gas drilling in the US and backs away from Biden’s focus on climate change.