Biden administration cancels remaining oil and gas leases in Alaska's Arctic Refuge amid push to protect wildlife and address climate change

The Biden administration canceled the remaining oil and gas leases in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge that were issued under the Trump administration.
The cancellation aims to protect the sensitive Arctic region and honor commitments to address climate change and safeguard public lands.
Stronger protections against development were also proposed for around 13 million acres in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska.
The decision has drawn praise from environmental groups but criticism from Alaska officials and some lawmakers concerned about impacts on the state's economy.
A new lease sale is mandated by 2024, so the future of drilling in the refuge remains uncertain amid legal battles.