Trump administration advances plan to open national forests to development
The proposal would repeal the roadless rule, opening up nearly 45 million acres of national land to roadbuilding and logging, despite widespread opposition from scientists and the public.
The Trump administration's plan to open national forests to development has significant implications for the environment and climate change. By repealing the roadless rule, which has protected nearly 45 million acres of national land from roadbuilding and logging since 2001, the proposal could lead to widespread deforestation and habitat destruction. This is particularly concerning given the critical role that forests play in sequestering carbon dioxide, a key contributor to climate change.
The roadless rule was put in place to safeguard the nation's most pristine and remote areas, and its repeal has been met with widespread opposition from scientists, environmental groups, and the public. The proposal is also at odds with the growing body of research highlighting the importance of preserving and expanding America's forests as a natural climate solution. As the US aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and meet its climate goals, opening up national forests to development could undermine these efforts and have long-term consequences for the environment.
What's next to watch is how the proposal moves through the regulatory process and whether it faces any challenges in court. Environmental groups and lawmakers have already expressed their opposition to the plan, and it's likely that there will be a protracted battle over its implementation. Additionally, the incoming Biden administration has signaled a commitment to addressing climate change and preserving America's natural resources, which could lead to a reversal of this proposal or efforts to strengthen protections for national forests.
Originally reported by grist.org. CleanNews adds analysis for climate & energy readers.