30 by 30 Resolution
A Goal to Protect 30 Percent by 2030
A new initiative known as the 30 by 30 Resolution (or “30x30”) is a bold, science based goal to protect 30 percent of Earth’s land and water resources by 2030. This would serve as an interim measure of conserving half of the earth by 2050–a goal that the scientific community believes is necessary to avoid an extinction crisis and to keep global temperatures from rising beyond 1.5 degrees Celsius (3.6°F).
Conceptualized by the United Nations Convention on Biodiversity following a 2017 report that proposed the “Global Deal for Nature,” 30x30 promotes increased habitat protection and restoration, national and regional conservation strategies, as well as the empowerment of Indigenous peoples to protect their sovereign lands.
The 30x30 initiative will require a collaborative conservation strategy to accomplish its goal. Advocacy organizations, Tribal leaders, federal agencies, and local governments will need to work together, utilizing their individual strengths to complement each other’s work, in order to protect America’s lands and waters. We too, as climbers, need to be a part of the solution.
What is 30x30?
30x30 is a collective, global effort to protect 30 percent of lands and waters by 2030
Why does it matter to climbers?
A climbing landscape is more than simply the walls, mountains, and boulders we climb. Land and water protections are critical for addressing the climate crisis, the longevity of sustainable climbing access, and the health and well-being of our community members.
How is the AAC involved?
The AAC is taking a federal and local approach by collaborating with community members on the ground to assist in the protection and restoration of climbing landscapes and green spaces across the country.
“At a fundamental level, our work at the AAC is centered around public lands conservation and there’s a reason for that. Not only are our climbing areas inherently a part of the landscape, but “conserving and restoring nature is one of the most efficient and cost-effective strategies for fighting climate change.” That’s why we’re stoked about 30x30, and getting the climbing community involved.”
Read more about 30x30 in The AAC Policy Zine