What is the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act?
The Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act of 2020, introduced by House Natural Resources Committee Chair Raúl Grijalva (D-Ariz), is comprehensive and ambitious legislation that seeks to leverage the ocean’s potential in the fight against climate change by promoting offshore renewable energy, protecting blue carbon, supporting climate-ready fisheries, expanding marine protected areas, and improving ocean health. You can read the full House bill text here.
Why Does this Legislation Matter in California?
85% of residents live and work in coastal counties.
Sea level rise is projected to rise by as much as 55 inches by the end of the century, an increase that could put nearly half a million people at risk of flooding and threaten $100 billion in property and infrastructure.
Coastal erosion could impact California's ocean-dependent economy, which is estimated to be $46 billion per year.
The Ocean Is Essential to Life on Earth
The ocean produces 50-80% of our planet's oxygen (aka every other breath you take!)
The ocean provides a primary source of food for 3.5 billion people, or around 44% of the world's population.
It covers 71% of our planet's surface, containing 97% of our water.
The ocean is home to an estimated 2.2 million species.
Take Action! Let's Email Our Members of Congress
One of the best ways to create policy change is by expressing your support to your elected officials. They want to hear from their constituents, like you! The email template below focuses on asking representatives to co-sponsor the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act. 39 members of the House, including Reps. Huffman, Lee, Levin, and DeSaulnier already have signed on as co-sponsors, however, several of our Bay Area officials have not yet. Below are email addresses for staff members and contact forms for representatives.
Email Template
Dear [Representative/Staff Member Name],
My name is _____, and I am a _____ student writing to urge you to co-sponsor the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act. The ocean is an abundant source of climate solutions, and we need your support to ensure that ocean climate action is made before it is too late. [insert personal statement about why ocean protection is important to you]
The Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act of 2021 will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase carbon storage in blue carbon ecosystems, promote coastal resiliency, improve ocean protection, support climate-ready fisheries, and tackle ocean and human health challenges. I strongly support implementing the measures detailed in this legislation. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Thanks for voicing your support of the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act. Make sure to share this article with friends!
Commentaires