Washington, D.C. — In response today’s announcement from the Biden-Harris administration to finalize new protections for a record 13 million acres of the Western Arctic and the decision on the Ambler Road Project, the League of Conservation Voters (LCV) and the Alaska Center released the following statements:

“This is fantastic and historic news. President Biden has done more for conservation and climate than any president, and we’re looking forward to more progress in the days and weeks ahead,” said Gene Karpinski, President of LCV. “We applaud the Biden-Harris administration for protecting 13 million acres of the Western Arctic and safeguarding the Brooks Range and the Gates of the Arctic. These actions put wildlife, communities, and their subsistence way of life first while continuing to prioritize climate and conservation in America’s iconic Arctic. We’re all in to support these efforts to protect people, our planet, and future generations.”

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“It is critical and urgent that Alaska transitions away from fossil fuels and embraces a sustainable energy future,” said Chantal de Alcuaz, Co-Executive Director of The Alaska Center. “For decades, our economy and state have been dependent on the fossil fuel industry, and this mindset has jeopardized our sacred lands and our future generations. These new protections from the Biden-Harris administration and their commitment to addressing the climate crisis are an opportunity for Alaskans to embrace the economy of the future and sustain our Alaskan ways of life.”

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