Alaska LNG project can now apply to disturb marine mammals for five years
What happened
The US government is proposing new rules that would allow the Alaska LNG project to disturb marine mammals in Cook Inlet. This means the project can move forward with its plans, even if it impacts whales and seals.
Why it matters
The Alaska LNG project has been in development for years, facing environmental hurdles. This proposed rule clears a path for the project to operate, setting specific conditions for how it can affect marine life. It shows how large infrastructure projects navigate environmental protection laws to proceed.
The signal
Watch for public comments on this proposed rule and the final decision from the National Marine Fisheries Service, which will indicate whether the project receives the authorization.