CONSERVATION INTERNATIONAL STATEMENT ON BIDEN ADMINISTRATION’S NEW NATIONALLY DETERMINED CONTRIBUTION
April 23, 2021
Arlington, VA (April 23, 2021) – Conservation International’s Senior Vice President for Global Policy and Government Affairs James Roth released the following statement after President Biden announced a new set of national goals and commitments at his Leaders Summit on Climate this week.
“Conservation International congratulates the Biden Administration on the release of the United States Nationally Determined Contribution. A commitment to reduce emissions by 50-52% by 2030 is a bold step forward for the world’s second largest emitter of greenhouse gases. The target puts the United States on a net-zero decarbonization pathway consistent with scientific consensus. The level of ambition is a clear signal that the United States is reengaging with the rest of world on climate change and is prepared to lead.
The long overdue attention given to nature is particularly compelling. The commitment by the United States to reduce emissions from forests and agriculture and enhance carbon sinks is a clear recognition that we cannot achieve net-zero emissions without nature-based solutions. Globally, natural climate solutions can provide a third of the action needed by 2030 to keep global temperature rise below 2°C, but they only receive 3% of all climate change and development assistance funding.
Conservation International further applauds the ambitious goals for climate finance announced today, including the doubling of annual public climate financing for developing countries by 2024 and the tripling of adaptation financing. Building on the White House Executive Order released in January, the United States plans to leverage new collaborations between the United States Agency for International Development, the Treasury and State Departments, the Development Finance Corporation and other agencies to mobilize private capital. Recognizing that governments cannot and should not shoulder this burden alone, this plan recognizes the fundamental role of the private sector in achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.
The United States’ commitments represent a bold yet achievable goal. The world cannot afford to leave any climate solutions – including natural climate solutions – behind if we’re to address this global crisis with the urgency and focus required.”
###
About Conservation International Conservation International works to protect the critical benefits that nature provides to people. Through science, partnerships and fieldwork, Conservation International is driving innovation and investments in nature-based solutions to the climate crisis, supporting protections for critical habitats, and fostering economic development that is grounded in the conservation of nature. Conservation International works in 30 countries around the world, empowering societies at all levels to create a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable planet. Follow Conservation International's work on Conservation News, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
