Biden seeks 50 percent cut in U.S. emissions, sees farming as carbon frontier
By deploying clean technology, the United States can reduce its greenhouse gas emissions 50 percent by the end of this decade, said President Biden at an Earth Day summit intended to spark global action on climate change. “That’s where we’re headed as a nation, and that’s what we can do if we take action to build an economy that’s not only more prosperous but healthier, fairer, and cleaner for the planet.”
Land set-aside is part of climate progress, not greenwashing, says Vilsack
The Biden administration is launching a portfolio of projects to reach its goal of net-zero emissions of greenhouse gases on the farm, including a new focus on climate mitigation by the Conservation Reserve Program, said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. During an Earth Day teleconference, he rejected the suggestion that carbon sequestration in the CRP was a form of greenwashing.
Today’s Quick Hits
BLM nominee: President Biden nominated Tracy Stone-Manning, a conservation adviser at the National Wildlife Federation and onetime chief of staff to former Montana Gov. Steve Bullock, to head the Bureau of Land Management, the landlord for one of every 10 acres in the country. (White House)
Senators praise Bronaugh: The Democratic and Republican leaders of the Senate Agriculture Committee praised the qualifications of Jewel Bronaugh for deputy agriculture secretary during a confirmation hearing, indicating she will win committee backing for the post. (Roll Call)
Taking a worldwide toll: Climate change could reduce global economic output 11 to 14 percent by 2050 by spreading disease, reducing agricultural production, and flooding coastal cities, said insurance giant Swiss Re. (New York Times)
U.S. drought spreads: Some 47.3 percent of the continental United States is in drought, an increase of 1.8 percentage points in a week, with arid areas expanding in northeastern Illinois, northern Ohio, and much of Michigan. (Drought Monitor)
Farm to School bill: Four senators introduced legislation to increase funding and expand the scope of the Farm to School program, which helps schools procure local foods for school meals and supports projects such as school gardens. (Farm to School Network)
