By: Madison MacLeod, EAC Legal & Policy Intern
In 2021, Governor Newsom introduced the 30x30 initiative, committing to protecting 30% of California’s lands and waters from biodiversity loss, pollution, and climate change by 2030. This goal was complemented by President Biden’s executive order America the Beautiful.
So far, California is making progress in implementing the 30x30 guidelines, but we still have a long way to go.
In February 2022, EAC had an opportunity to provide public comments at the 30x30 Pathways Draft Meeting. We commended the 30x30 initiative but also offered some recommendations that were echoed by other grassroots organizations and concerned Californians.
First, we suggested that 30x30 implement a scientific framework, such as the Marine Protected Area (MPA) Guide, to identify the baseline and determine new areas for conservation, so we can meaningfully achieve 30x30 goals. These recommendations will help modify and strengthen the MPA network to benefit species in our coastal habitats.
Just as importantly, we strongly urged 30x30 to include environmental NGOs and all ocean stakeholders, who were not mentioned in the document. California’s ocean users and recreators are broad and diverse. Any decision-making process should be inclusive of ALL stakeholders. Equitable access leads to more support and stewardship of our conserved waters and ocean.
As the Natural Resources Defense Council said, 30x30 is an opportunity for California “to get ocean protection right.” EAC is guardedly optimistic that this draft is a sign of more positive changes to come.
EAC also advocated for 30x30 at the 17th annual California Ocean Day.
EAC looks forward to continued engagement in the 30x30 process. It is a wonderful opportunity for coastal biodiversity.
More info.
- 30x30 California
- February 15, 2022 Group NGO Letter re. 30x30 Draft Pathways document
- EAC’s past blog posts on 30x30: 12/1/21, 3/11/21
