Climate change is the single biggest threat to natural resources conservation today, and its impacts are accelerating at an alarming pace. Rising global temperatures are intensifying droughts, wildfires, hurricanes, and floods—putting ecosystems, wildlife, and communities at greater risk than ever before. Vital efforts such as restoring habitat, cleaning our drinking water, and protecting our iconic landscapes are being undermined by the cascading effects of climate disruption. Without addressing the root causes of climate change, these conservation goals become increasingly unattainable.
While reducing emissions from cars, power plants, and industry is essential, it is only one part of the solution. We must also recognize and act on the critical role natural systems play in buffering us from the worst effects of a warming planet. Forests, wetlands, grasslands, and healthy soils absorb vast amounts of carbon, regulate temperature and rainfall, and support biodiversity that makes ecosystems more resilient. Ignoring the climate mitigation value of these natural systems not only delays progress—it puts our future at risk. America must lead with a dual approach: cutting emissions and investing in nature as a frontline defense against climate change.
