Why did Biden shut down the Keystone Pipeline?
Why did Biden shut down the Keystone Pipeline?
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Former President Biden shut down the Keystone XL pipeline in early 2021 due to its environmental and health impacts. He cited climate change as a prime reason for cancelling the project, as well as his commitment to helping preserve a healthy planet for future generations. Other factors included opposition from Native American tribes, legal challenges that delayed the project and job security concerns for those who worked on the construction. Ultimately, Biden felt the closure of Keystone was in line with his broader goal of addressing climate change and putting America on track to meet its emissions targets.
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Why did Biden shut down the Keystone Pipeline?
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On his first day in office, President Biden issued an executive order which temporarily paused any new authorizations for the development of energy projects that would negatively impact the environment. This included a temporary pause on the Keystone Pipeline, which requires Presidential approval to proceed. The Keystone Pipeline route also passes through environmentally sensitive areas, such as national wildlife refuges and grasslands that are home to endangered species like birds and bison. Biden’s action was taken with public health and safety as his top priority to address our climate crisis caused by fossil fuels. His order also encouraged development of renewable energy sources with less environmental risk so that we can begin to transition away from fossil fuels.
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