In what apparently is a consequence of a partial settlement in an ongoing lawsuit, the US Interior Department on Wednesday announced that it has set aside more than 187,000 square miles (120 million acres) of area along the northern coast of Alaska offshore as “critical habitat” for polar bears.

The total designated area, which includes offshore sea ice and other areas, is approximately 13,000 square miles less than that mentioned in a last year-released preliminary plan. The move clearly recognizes the fact that the greatest threat to polar bears is the melting sea ice caused by ever-worsening climate change.

The designation of the mentioned area for polar bears marks Obama administration’s partial settlement in a lawsuit filed against the Interior Department by the Center for Biological Diversity, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and Greenpeace.

Though a “critical habitat” designation does not automatically bar development, the status makes it essential for the Interior Department to consult the Fish and Wildlife Service for ascertaining whether a particular activity being authorized will destroy or adversely alter a critical habitat.

Noting that the designated area would help polar bears stave off extinction, Tom Strickland - Interior secretary for fish, wildlife and parks – told AFP: “This critical habitat designation enables us to work with federal partners to ensure their actions within its boundaries do not harm polar bear populations. We will continue to work toward comprehensive strategies for the long-term survival of this iconic species.”