Los Angeles ends oil production after more than a decade of struggle

Los Angeles has officially banned oil drilling and extraction within the city, following years of opposition to oil companies and pollution risks. The unanimous decision by the city council aims to phase out oil production over the next 20 years, affecting around 600 active and 1,200 inactive oil wells. The measure addresses historical injustices faced by communities exposed to health hazards from drilling activities, particularly near sensitive locations like schools and hospitals. This ban aligns with the county's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2035 and protecting public health. The decision follows a previous ban on new drilling approved in 2022, which was temporarily overturned by a court in 2024 due to state regulation issues. Over half a million residents live within a kilometer of an active oil well.