(NewsGlobal.com)- The Biden administration has announced a $1 billion initiative to help it achieve its goal of saving 30% of the country’s lands and waterways by 2030. This new mission comes as millions of Americans suffer over many “kitchen table” issues.
According to the administration, the “America the Beautiful Challenge” would act as a “one-stop-shop” for states, tribes, territories, non-governmental organizations, and others to apply for a variety of awards for conservation and restoration projects. It is backed by an initial $440 million in federal monies over five years—the majority of which comes from a bipartisan infrastructure plan enacted by Congress last year—and intends to raise $1 billion in private and charitable contributions.
President Joe Biden set a national objective to safeguard 30% of America’s lands and waterways by 2030 to address climate change and biodiversity loss early in his presidency. In May, the government released a report describing their aim for a 10-year “locally-led” conservation and restoration initiative.
The investment includes $375 million in ecosystem restoration funds that the Interior Department received via the infrastructure law. $35 million in Forest Service grants for water quality improvement and invasive species prevention. $25 million in Department of Defense funding to preserve natural resources around military installations.
The initiative will be overseen by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, a private foundation that collaborates closely with government agencies. Awards will be prioritized for the tribe and Indigenous-led projects. From early May until late July, proposals will be considered, and money will be given in November.
In a statement, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland stated that The America the Beautiful Challenge offers the opportunity to assist local initiatives led by folks who know, love, and are interested in their surrounding environments.
The initiative will be overseen by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, a private foundation that collaborates closely with government agencies. From early May until July, proposals will be considered, and money will be given in November.
Despite its intense opponents, 3030 continues to be immensely popular across the country. According to a study of registered voters conducted in January 2021, 80 percent of people approve of the conservation goal.
The study was most likely conducted amongst Democrat registered voters.
