This article explores the urgent steps needed to save nature as we approach the end of 2024, a critical time for our planet. It outlines three major actions that world leaders must take: keeping plastic out of nature, securing resources for biodiversity conservation, and fulfilling climate change commitments.
With a focus on both local and global efforts, the article emphasizes the importance of decisive action and collective responsibility in protecting the environment. Through strategic policies and international cooperation, we can preserve the natural world for future generations.
As we approach the end of 2024, the actions taken by world leaders in the coming months will be crucial in shaping the future of our planet. The pressing issues of plastic pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change demand immediate attention and decisive action. To save nature, three critical steps must be taken: keeping plastic out of nature, securing resources for biodiversity conservation, and fulfilling climate change commitments.
Keep Plastic Out of Environment to Save Nature
One of the most significant challenges we face is stopping the plastic pollution crisis. Governments at all levels, from local to global, must act to keep plastic out of nature. The United States, as the world’s largest consumer, has a unique responsibility in this effort.
The Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to phasing out single-use plastics across federal agencies by 2035 and in food service by 2027 is a step in the right direction. This decision leverages the government’s purchasing power to drive change at the necessary scale.
At the state level, Minnesota has set a strong example by enacting a law that mandates all packaging to be reusable, recyclable, compostable, or managed by an approved system by 2032. This milestone aligns with the goals of Extended Producer Responsibility, which encourages businesses to reduce their plastic footprint and enables consumers to manage waste sustainably.
However, more must be done at the international level. This November, world leaders will meet in Busan, Korea, for what could be the final round of talks on a global treaty to address plastic pollution. It is essential that these discussions result in a robust international agreement that holds all nations to high standards in reducing plastic waste. Achieving this will be a critical step in our efforts to save nature.
Secure Resources for Biodiversity Conservation
The fight to save nature cannot succeed without strong American leadership in biodiversity conservation. Congress plays a vital role in this by providing the necessary resources for conservation programs both domestically and internationally. Thanks to advocacy efforts, funding for these programs has been maintained or even increased, reflecting bipartisan support for the protection of nature.
These funds support successful conservation partnerships, such as the USAID Biodiversity Conservation project in Vietnam, which recently helped a national park achieve the global sustainability standard for protected areas. Domestically, new grants under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law enable organizations like WWF to educate communities about reducing food waste.
Yet, the need for more resources is undeniable. Congress must pass the US Foundation for International Conservation Act to unlock even greater resources for long-term conservation efforts. Additionally, the upcoming United Nations biodiversity summit in Colombia will be crucial in ensuring global commitments to halt and reverse nature loss are upheld.
The Biden-Harris Administration’s America the Beautiful Freshwater Challenge, which aims to restore US wetlands, rivers, and streams by 2030, will contribute significantly to these global goals.
Fulfill Climate Change Commitments
Climate change continues to pose an existential threat to our planet about save nature. To mitigate this, we must accelerate the transition to a sustainable and resilient future. The Biden-Harris administration has already made progress through funding and executive actions aimed at addressing climate change, such as investments in clean energy and regulations on emissions.
However, food waste remains a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Congress must seize the opportunity to address this issue in the upcoming Farm Bill by supporting sustainable agriculture practices that benefit both the environment and the economy.
Forests also play a critical role in combating climate change. The recent passage of the Tropical Rainforest Economic & Environmental Sustainability (TREES) Act by the New York legislature is a promising development. This act requires companies to certify that their products do not contribute to tropical forest destruction, setting a precedent for other states and nations to follow.
As we approach key international climate summits this fall, it is imperative that governments make good on their commitments to save nature and protect our way of life. Collective action is the only way to halt the threats posed by climate change.
A Critical Time for Our Planet
Significant strides have been made this year in the fight to save nature, but there is still much work to be done. The final months of 2024 present a series of opportunities for world leaders to come together and take the urgent action our planet needs. We cannot afford to lose momentum now.
Join the movement to protect the natural world and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. Together, we can save nature and preserve the beauty and diversity of our planet.
