Biden’s order requires report on nature-based solutions

A host of government agencies have been tasked with identifying ways to combat climate change and enhance resilience using nature-based solutions.

An executive order signed last month by President Joe Biden calls for various federal agencies to develop a report to the National Climate Change Task Force, singling out opportunities to use nature, whether its marshland restoration, planting shade trees or promoting drought-resistant crops, to curb the effects of the changing climate.

According to the April 22 order, solutions will aim to protect coasts and critical marine ecosystems, reduce flooding, replenish groundwater sources, combat extreme heat, capture and store carbon dioxide, and improve agricultural and forest lands to produce food and fiber.

Agencies contributing to the report include the departments of Defense, Interior, Agriculture, Commerce, Housing and Urban Development, Transportation, Energy, Homeland Security, Environmental Protection, and Small Business.

They’re also tasked with determining potential policy, guidance and program.

The $1 trillion infrastructure bill Biden signed into law last November includes funding for nature-based solutions, such as $2.3 million for the U.S. Forest Service and Department of Interior to advance ecosystem restoration and resilience.

In May 2021, the Biden administration released its America the Beautiful initiative supporting locally led and voluntary efforts to conserve and restore lands and waters across the country and help combat climate change.

The National Climate Task Force’s Coastal Resilience Interagency Working Group last month released a collection of information resources and federal programs that can support nature-based solutions for coastal communities, states, tribes and territories.

The president’s goal is to conserve at least 30% of the nation’s wetlands and waters by 2030.