REI CEO Mary Beth Laughton publicly apologized for the company's support of Doug Burgum's nomination as Interior Secretary, amid backlash from environmental organizations. Burgum, who served as North Dakota's Governor, is seen as controversial due to his pro-fossil fuel stance and the notion that public lands are part of a financial "balance sheet." The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable's endorsement letter highlighted the importance of managing public lands for a sustainable outdoor recreation economy, stressing the necessity of safeguarding these areas for future generations. Following his confirmation, Burgum began initiatives to boost U.S. coal production and assess federal lands for affordable housing potential.
REI CEO Mary Beth Laughton expressed her regret over the company's support for Doug Burgum's nomination, given his controversial views on public lands and fossil fuels.
The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable's letter stressed the critical need for effective management of public lands to sustain the multi-trillion dollar outdoor recreation economy.
Burgum's appointment sparked backlash due to his ties to the fossil fuel industry and his perception of public lands as components of the financial 'balance sheet'.
Since his confirmation, Burgum has focused on enhancing U.S. coal production and exploring federal lands for affordable housing opportunities.
Collection
[
|
...
]