SANTA FE – Today, the Biden Administration announced an immediate pause on permitting new methane gas projects and exports across the country. Liquified natural gas (LNG) is a potent contributor to climate change and is generated by the oil and gas industry during operations. In the Administration’s remarks about this decision, climate change, and frontline community impacts were among the primary reasons for the pause. The United States is also the top exporter of LNG worldwide, with exports expected to double by the end of the decade.
In response, Conservation Voters New Mexico (CVNM)’s Chief Executive Officer Demis Foster released the following statement:
“Today’s decision to pause new methane gas exports sends a clear message: our future must be fueled by clean, renewable energy sources. This marks an essential next step in our country’s commitment to address the climate crisis and transition away from a fossil fuel economy. As the nation’s second-largest oil and gas producing state, New Mexico communities carry a disproportionate burden of health impacts and pollution from the industry. New Mexico has also seen an increase in permitting applications from the industry, with outspoken opposition to pending LNG facilities across the state. We applaud the Biden Administration for continuing to deliver on climate and centering the voices of community advocates and leaders who have long called for a transition from fossil fuels.
We call on our state leaders to maximize opportunities to diversify our economy, leverage federal dollars for renewable infrastructure, and protect our state’s land, water, wildlife, and people from the ongoing impacts of climate change.”