Trump Vows to Resume Alaska Oil Drilling That Biden Banned Due to Environmental Concerns

By Thea Felicity

Jun 14, 2024 01:29 PM EDT

Chukchi Sea Town Of Shishmaref, Alaska Concerned Over Gov't Approval Of Exploratory Oil Drilling
SHISHMAREF, AK - JULY 07: A rusted barrel sits on the beach along the Chukchi Sea on July 7, 2015 in Shishmaref, Alaska. Earlier this year the Obama administration approved Shell Oil to begin drilling for oil in Arctic regions, including the Chukchi sea, worrying locals who live in the region and disappointing conservationists.
(Photo : Andrew Burton/Getty Images)

Former President Donald Trump announced plans to resume oil drilling in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, reversing Biden's lease cancellations in a move discussed with Senate Republicans, as Bloomberg reported.

During the discussion, Trump criticized Biden's environmental policies, citing the economic role of energy production during a recent visit to Washington. He viewed the Arctic refuge as a valuable resource for domestic oil production, potentially reducing dependence on foreign oil and strengthening the United States' energy independence.

However, environmentalists are unhappy with Trump's plans and condemn the decision. According to them, oil drilling will negatively impact wildlife and the environment in one of America's most pristine regions. 

In response, Trump argued that responsible oil exploration and drilling could be conducted while minimizing environmental impact.

READ MORE: New Zealand Plans to Revoke Previous Government's Oil Drilling Ban

Why Biden Banned Alaska Oil Drilling

President Biden banned oil drilling in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge primarily due to environmental concerns. The refuge is a critical habitat for diverse wildlife, including caribou, polar bears, and migratory birds. 

By banning oil exploration projects, the Biden administration aimed to protect this ecologically sensitive area from potential environmental degradation that could result from oil drilling activities. 

Moreover, the decision was a clear testament to Biden's commitment to environmental protection and his strategy to combat climate change. By promoting cleaner energy alternatives and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, he is paving the way for a more sustainable future.

READ NEXT: Donald Trump Allegedly Asks $1 Billion from Oil CEOs, Promising Them He'll End EV Incentives

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