President Biden signed a set of wide-ranging executive orders on climate change on Wednesday, January 27.
Included in the orders is a pause on oil and gas leasing on national public lands, a commitment to protect 30 percent of America’s land, water, and oceans by 2030, and the creation of new environmental justice offices in the White House, Health and Human Services, and Justice Department. The Center for Western Priorities released the following statements.
Executive Director Jennifer Rokala:
“Thanks to President Biden, America is now committed to protecting 30 percent of our land and water by the end of the decade. Scientists tell us we have a very small window to stop the extinction of millions of species and avoid the most catastrophic effects of climate change. By committing to the 30×30 goal, we can set an example for the world in land and ocean conservation.
“Now the hard work begins—it’s going to take unprecedented partnerships between the U.S. government, states, cities, and private landowners to reach the 30×30 goal. It’s imperative that the Senate quickly confirm Deb Haaland as Interior Secretary and the rest of the Biden cabinet so they can lead America down this important path.
“The President’s executive order also places racial and economic equity at the forefront of America’s conservation plan. We’re thrilled to see the creation of the White House interagency council on environmental justice, and are confident that America’s marginalized communities will be central to this conservation vision for the 21st century.”
Policy Director Jesse Prentice-Dunn:
“Hitting pause on oil and gas leasing is a crucial first step toward reforming a rigged and broken system that for too long has put oil and gas lobbyists ahead of the American people. This temporary pause in leasing will give Secretary Haaland and the Interior team time for a top-to-bottom review, and give Congress time to pass long-overdue legislation to overhaul an outdated system that has enriched oil and gas CEOs at the expense of America’s land, water, and wildlife.
“A pause on leasing is just the first step, however. Now it’s up to the Interior Department and Congress to craft new rules and legislation that ensures America’s public lands are part of the climate solution, instead of part of the problem.”
Aaron Weiss is Media Director for the Center for Western Priorities.