Although clean energy and other environmental technologies are poised for crucial continued long-term growth nature itself is emerging as this year’s most game-ready carbon storage technology and one of the most important ways to begin reaching international climate goals now. A peer-reviewed study, led by scientists from The Nature Conservancy and 15 other institutions, indicates that “natural climate solutions” could play a bigger role than previously thought, potentially delivering 37% of cost-effective carbon dioxide mitigation needed by 2030 for a greater than 66% chance of holding global warming below 2°C this century. Maximizing these solutions—which include the conservation, restoration and improved management of forests, grasslands, agricultural lands and wetlands to increase carbon storage or avoid greenhouse gas emissions—would be equivalent to stopping the burning of oil globally. With the science clear, more attention is shifting this year to catalyzing funding and action to make this a reality.
Solving for future carbon emissions is one thing; removing carbon dioxide already in the atmosphere is another. Can we do both today?