The American Petroleum Institute (API) and other energy industry groups are urging the U.S. government not to remove Arctic offshore drilling from the table through 2022, despite strong opposition over ecological issues. In a letter to the U.S. Department of Interior , the oil industry group—which includes the API and the Independent Petroleum Association of America—insists on the importance of the Arctic for American energy sustainability. “Access to oil and natural gas resources in the Alaska [outer continental shelf] under balanced and science-based regulations is an essential part of the nation’s long-term economic and energy security,” the letter reads. “Our state’s oil fields have matured over the years, and it is vital that new arenas and development opportunities are realized for the future economic security of our state.” The group said this move is supported by the Alaska-based business and labor organizations. Advocacy group Oceana warns […]