Trump reduces protected area by 90% in two US zones to allow mining and oil drilling

Former President Donald Trump has reduced the size of two protected areas in the United States by 90% to allow mining and oil drilling. The decision affects lands previously designated as national monuments or conservation zones, opening them to resource extraction. This move reverses decades of environmental protections and aligns with Trump's policy of expanding domestic energy production. The specific zones are likely Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante in Utah, which were significantly downsized during his administration. Environmental groups have condemned the action, citing threats to biodiversity and cultural sites. The policy shift is expected to boost mining and oil operations but faces legal challenges from conservationists.

Global Impact

This decision has significant environmental and political implications. Environmentally, it threatens protected ecosystems and wildlife habitats, potentially accelerating biodiversity loss.