Healthy Gulf calls for comprehensive protections and a just transition to clean energy
Today, the Biden administration announced the withdrawal of the eastern Gulf of Mexico from future offshore oil and gas leasing under Section 12(a) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA). This critical action protects Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches and marine ecosystems, a step welcomed by Healthy Gulf. However, deep concerns remain about the lack of protections for the western Gulf of Mexico, where offshore drilling continues to pose severe risks to communities, ecosystems, and economies across the region.
“We’re excited and thankful that the Biden administration recognizes the immense value of Florida’s Gulf Coast,” said Martha Collins, Healthy Gulf Executive Director. “From its white sandy beaches to its vibrant marine life, Florida’s Gulf Coast defines a way of life cherished by millions. Today’s decision ensures that industrial oil and gas operations will not tarnish this special area. ”Protecting the eastern Gulf from drilling reflects the long-standing opposition from Floridians, who understand that offshore drilling endangers not only the environment but also the livelihoods tied to Florida’s coastal way of life.”
This action ensures that one area of the Gulf will remain free from industrialization by oil and gas corporations. But there’s still much more work to do to free the entire Gulf from the ravages of offshore drilling and to bring a just transition to clean energy to the entire region. The western Gulf of Mexico has long been treated as a “sacrifice zone” for fossil fuel extraction, disproportionately burdening minority communities with pollution and health risks. These communities bear the brunt of the environmental and public health tolls of offshore drilling, with air and water pollution contributing to asthma, cancer, and other chronic illnesses.
“We are disappointed that President Biden did not take the opportunity to withdraw additional areas in the Gulf of Mexico, particularly the risky deepwater regions and the western Gulf,” Collins added. “These areas remain vulnerable to catastrophic oil spills, such as the 2010 BP disaster. We cannot allow any more communities to suffer the devastating consequences of offshore drilling.”
A just transition to clean energy is critical to ensuring sustainable jobs and economic stability for Gulf communities while eliminating the harmful impacts of fossil fuel extraction. “Today’s decision is a step forward, but the work is far from over,” said Collins. “We must ensure the entire Gulf is free from the shadow of offshore drilling and move toward a future where clean, renewable energy supports the health, safety, and prosperity of all Gulf communities.”
Media Contact:
Stephannie Kettle
skettle@healthygulf.org