“Congress passed an appropriations package for fiscal year 2023 today that includes a significant investment in natural climate solutions along with increased spending for critical conservation and research programs that benefit birds and people.”

“Audubon has long been advocating for the Growing Climate Solutions Act (GCSA), which was folded into the omnibus spending package. The GCSA creates voluntary carbon markets for farmers, foresters, ranchers, and other land stewards. Once signed into law, it will create a new program to self-certify technical assistance providers and third-party verifiers for the agriculture and forestry sectors. It will also address barriers to entry for landowners trying to access voluntary carbon markets and encourages practices guided by science.”

“Recognizing the critical role that stewards of the land play in responsible conservation and reducing emissions through natural carbon storage is essential," said Elizabeth Gray, CEO of the National Audubon Society. "The Growing Climate Solutions Act will provide the support that farmers, ranchers, foresters, and other producers need to ensure that our working lands are part of the solution for a better future for people and wildlife.”  READ MORE>>>