WASHINGTON (May 6, 2021) – Today, the Biden administration launched the America the Beautiful campaign and set a goal to conserve 30% of U.S. lands, waters and ocean by 2030. This first-ever national conservation goal aims to protect vital natural resources and support locally led conservation efforts. It will support voluntary conservation efforts by private landowners, foster stewardship by Tribal Nations, and include local, state and federal lands and waters. The call to action will also help create new jobs and foster economic growth nationwide.

Following is a statement from Craig Hanson, Vice President for Food, Forest, Water & the Ocean, World Resources Institute.

“America’s natural lands and waters provide jobs, a vibrant tourism industry, clean air and water, habitat for wildlife and resilience to a changing climate. The Biden Administration’s plan to conserve or restore 30% of US lands and waters by 2030 through the America the Beautiful initiative is a strong step toward safeguarding these resources for future generations. This plan must now be followed by ambitious, equitable and ecologically sound investments to turn the vision into reality.

“Strong policies to conserve US lands and waters, restore forests and reduce emissions in food production can drive sustainable economic growth in rural communities while rebuilding America’s leadership to address the climate crisis.”