President Biden's conservation efforts face uncertainty as Trump eyes return

President Biden's ambitious plan to conserve 30% of US land and water by 2030 is making progress, but a potential Trump return threatens these gains.

Oliver Milman reports for The Guardian.

In short:

• Biden aims to protect 30% of US lands and waters by 2030, with significant strides made since his inauguration.
• Trump's possible return could undo these efforts, as he plans to expand oil and gas drilling and reduce protected areas.
• The 30x30 initiative has influenced global conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of setting aside land to combat climate change and biodiversity loss.

Key quote:

“We would fight that agenda from Trump and his fossil fuel allies but I’d rather we not have to. The stakes for the election are high.”

— Dan Hartinger, senior director of policy advocacy at the Wilderness Society Action Fund

Why this matters:

Biden's actions not only advance national conservation goals but also set a precedent for global environmental efforts to combat climate change and protect biodiversity. However, these efforts risk being reversed if Trump is re-elected. Read more: Giving Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante the protection they deserve.