In a landmark decision, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors voted 3-1 on Tuesday to phase out all existing onshore oil and gas production and ban any future fossil fuel project applications. The move marks a bold shift toward environmental sustainability and aligns with the county’s broader climate and public health goals.
The resolution outlines a methodical phase-out of active oil and gas wells, citing both economic and ecological benefits. The county currently has 2,348 active and idle wells, including 1,030 producing wells, and nearly 2,500 plugged and abandoned wells.
A report from the UC Santa Barbara Political Science Department estimates the transition could result in $54 million to $81 million in avoided mortality-related costs by 2045, primarily by reducing public exposure to airborne particulates. The total economic benefit—including lower oil spill response costs and climate-related savings—could reach $100 million.
Supporters of the move see it as a milestone in California’s energy transition, while critics argue about potential economic disruption. Nevertheless, the resolution reinforces Santa Barbara County’s role as a leader in clean energy policy and environmental stewardship.
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