Trump plan to allow drilling near US world heritage site sparks alarm
Administration’s plan to scrap drilling-free buffer zone around New Mexico site prompts scrutiny from Unesco
TL;DR
- The Trump administration is planning to expand oil and gas extraction, potentially impacting US world heritage sites.
- Unesco is scrutinizing the plan to remove a drilling-free buffer zone around the Chaco Culture national historical park in New Mexico.
- Extractive activities are considered incompatible with world heritage status by Unesco.
- Critics warn that removing the buffer zone could cause significant environmental and cultural damage to the Chaco site.
- Concerns also exist about drilling near other world heritage sites like the Grand Canyon and Carlsbad Caverns.
- Opponents argue that the need for new drilling leases in these areas is an illusion, as much of the surrounding federal land is already leased.