| Washington, DC – ConservAmerica Vice President of Policy Todd Johnston released the following statement today upon the introduction of H.R. 9027, The Ocean Restoration Research and Development Act of 2022 by Congressman David McKinley (R-WV), Congressman Mike Doyle (D-PA), and Congressman Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA): “The introduction of this bipartisan bill has been a long time coming, and we couldn’t be more pleased to see the efforts of so many come to fruition. Ocean restoration provides a unique opportunity to sequester tens of millions of tons of blue carbon while simultaneously helping restore fisheries; this initiative could be a game changer when it comes to our efforts to address climate change and improve the health of our oceans. This concept isn’t new – in fact it’s been around for decades – but this is the first time we are seeing Congress take significant strides in the right direction. ConservAmerica commends Rep. McKinley, Rep. Doyle, and Rep. Carter on the introduction of this important legislation, and we look forward to following its journey through Congress.” H.R. 9027 has received the endorsement of many in the scientific community; ocean restoration was also the subject of a recent National Academies report, which touted its benefits and called for additional research and investment. Once enacted, this legislation will direct the Secretary of Energy, in consultation with NOAA and other federal agencies, to develop a demonstration program to close knowledge gaps and help inform policymaking for carbon-dioxide removal (CDR) strategies along with the potential co-benefits to fisheries and marine mammal conservation. Read the bill text here. ConservAmerica is a nonprofit organization that advocates for market-based solutions to conservation, environmental, and energy challenges. Visit us at ConservAmerica and follow us on Twitter @ConservAmerica and Facebook. CONTACT: [email protected]. |
