Marine Ecosystem Protection: Blue Carbon Program for a Cleaner Environment
This act establishes a program to protect and restore marine and coastal ecosystems, such as mangroves and seagrasses, which naturally absorb carbon dioxide. The goal is to improve environmental quality, provide protection against floods and storms, and support fisheries and tourism. Citizens may benefit from grants for projects related to the protection of these areas.
Key points
A 'Blue Carbon Program' will be established within NOAA to research and protect marine ecosystems that absorb carbon dioxide.
Grants will be available for landowners, state agencies, Native American tribes, and non-profit organizations for projects to protect and restore these ecosystems.
'Blue carbon areas of significance' will be designated and specially protected from harmful activities.
The act authorizes $300 million annually for the grant program and additional funds for protection activities on federally managed lands.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_3906
Sponsor: Rep. Huffman, Jared [D-CA-2]
Process start date: 2021-06-15