WASHINGTON – President Biden plans to halt new federal oil and gas leases on Wednesday, people familiar with the matter said, starting a confrontation with the oil industry over the future of U.S. energy.
The Biden government has issued a mandate to impose the moratorium while reviewing the federal oil and gas leasing program, according to the people, which may be a first step toward its promise to end future leases. The order is expected to be incorporated into a government-wide package of measures aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting soil conservation.
As a candidate, Mr. Biden said he would push the country to move away from the oil industry because of the pollution, and he acted faster and wider for it than many people expected.
In addition to the moratorium on oil and gas leasing, Mr. Biden is expected to set a goal of protecting 30% of federal land and water by 2030, the people said. The president also plans to set up a White House Scientific Advisory Board set up during the Obama administration. Mr. Biden’s plans were previously reported by Bloomberg News and other publications.
One of the people discussed the administration officials to hold a summit on climate change, possibly on Earth Day, April 22, but officials have not yet finalized the plans. Mr. During his campaign, Biden promised to convene a summit of leaders from around the world to discuss climate change early in his government.