The US Department of the Interior (DoI) has announced a final rule overturning restrictions set by the Joe Biden administration that limited oil and gas drilling activities across a significant portion of Alaska’s National Petroleum Reserve.
The decision is in line with President Donald Trump’s aim to ease regulations on domestic fossil fuel extraction, particularly in “resource-rich” Alaska, according to Reuters.
The 2024 rule had blocked leasing for oil and gas extraction across 10.6 million acres within the reserve and imposed further constraints on more than two million additional acres.
According to Reuters, in 2024, the Biden administration introduced measures to restrict oil and gas exploration as well as mining in Alaska.
At that time, these actions were criticised by state officials, who argued that the limitations could lead to job losses and increase US dependence on imported resources.
Environmental groups, however, supported the initiatives, which were part of Biden’s broader strategy to curtail fossil fuel development on public lands and protect 30% of the nation’s land and water in response to changes in climate.
The DoI said in a release that by rescinding the 2024 regulation it aims to “strengthen American Energy Dominance and reduce reliance on foreign oil”.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said in a release that: "By rescinding the 2024 rule, we are following the direction set by President Trump to unlock Alaska’s energy potential, create jobs for North Slope communities and strengthen American energy security.
"This action restores common-sense management and ensures responsible development benefits for both Alaska and the nation."
According to Reuters, Voice of the Arctic Inupiat, an Alaska Native organisation, expressed support for the move, noting that oil development infrastructure generates critical tax revenue for local communities and helps fund essential services such as education and healthcare.
The US Government recently scrapped plans to sell offshore oil and gas leases along the US East Coast following concerns raised by Republican leaders in the south-east.
"Trump administration lifts curbs on oil and gas drilling in Alaska reserve" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.
