, a new Vox reporting initiative on the science, politics, and economics of the biodiversity crisis.
The Biden administration is about to embark on a historic mission: to conserve 30 percent of the nation’s land and water by 2030.
Since President Joe Biden announced the target, known as “30 by 30,” in January, there’s been a mix of hope, especially from environmental groups, and apprehension, largely from people who earn a living off of the land. On both sides, there’s a heightened focus on the fact that just 12 percent of American land is within permanently protected areas today. The question is: Where will the rest come from?
Initial report details vision for 10-year locally led and voluntary nationwide effort to restore and conserve America’s lands, waters, and wildlife
Today the Biden-Harris administration outlined a vision for how the United States can work collaboratively to conserve and restore the lands, waters, and wildlife that support and sustain the nation. The recommendations are contained in a report released today, outlining a locally led and voluntary nationwide conservation goal to conserve 30 percent of U.S. lands and waters by 2030.
The report calls for a decade-long effort to support locally led and voluntary conservation and restoration efforts across public, private, and Tribal lands and waters in order to create jobs and strengthen the economy’s foundation; tackle the climate and nature crises, and address inequitable access to the outdoors.
Published: Thursday, May 6, 2021
Ear Mountain Conservation Management Area. Photo credit: Bob Wick/Bureau of Land Management
The Ear Mountain Conservation Management Area near Lewistown, Mont. Bob Wick/Bureau of Land Management
The Biden administration today unveiled the framework for its ambitious conservation plan, emphasizing the role of voluntary efforts by states, private landowners and tribal nations over an expansion of the federal estate.
The 24-page report also rebrands the proposal often called 30x30 for its goal of setting aside 30% of the nation s lands and waters by 2030 into a 10-year America the Beautiful campaign. The document offers broad strokes about how to reach its aim, leaving for later some key details.