The Biden administration has dealt a blow to a proposed giant open-pit mine near two national parks in Alaska. The administration denied a permit for the mine, citing concerns about environmental damage, including potential harm to wildlife and water quality.
The mine, which would have been one of the largest open-pit mines in the world, was proposed by Ambler Metals LLC. The company had planned to build a 211-mile road to access the mine, which would have intersected Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve.
The Biden administration’s decision to deny the permit is a major victory for environmental groups and Alaska Native communities, who have opposed the mine for years. The groups had argued that the mine would have caused irreparable damage to the fragile Arctic ecosystem and harmed the traditional way of life of Alaska Natives.
The decision is also a setback for Alaska’s mining industry, which has been struggling in recent years. The industry has argued that the mine would have created jobs and boosted the state’s economy.
However, the Biden administration has said that it is committed to developing Alaska’s resources in a sustainable way. The administration has proposed a new plan to develop Alaska’s critical minerals, which would focus on protecting the environment and Alaska Native communities.
The decision to deny the permit is a significant step forward in the Biden administration’s efforts to protect the environment and Alaska’s wild places. It is also a reminder that the administration is committed to a sustainable approach to resource development.tunesharemore_vert
