Bay State Joins International Union for Conservation of Nature
BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced Tuesday that Massachusetts is now an official member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), a global network of more than 1,400 governments and organizations working together to protect biodiversity. This milestone places Massachusetts within the world’s leading coalition focused on advancing the conservation of nature and addressing environmental challenges at a global scale.
“In Massachusetts, we are taking proactive steps to protect the natural resources people rely on, from clean water and open spaces to healthy wildlife,” said Gov. Maura Healey. “Joining this global network puts Massachusetts at the table with leaders from around the world and gives us access to proven tools and practical solutions we can use here at home. It strengthens our ability to protect our environment, support communities and continue leading by example.”
“We’re thrilled that Massachusetts has joined IUCN as the first U.S. state to do so alongside California. States, cities and other subnational governments play a critical role in protecting and restoring the world’s biodiversity, and contributing to a more stable, healthier, safer future for us all,” said IUCN Director General, Dr. Grethel Aguilar. “Massachusetts is implementing a 25-year biodiversity initiative that aims to conserve 30% of state land and water by 2030, and 40% by 2050, and is addressing development and climate change challenges to ensure greater resilience going forward. As an IUCN Member, Massachusetts is now part of a growing group of subnational governments who are contributing to crucial action on the ground, knowledge exchange, and progress towards achieving conservation targets of global significance.”
Massachusetts and California are the first U.S. states to become members of the IUCN, marking a significant step forward in Massachusetts’ environmental leadership. Membership will strengthen the state’s commitment to biodiversity and climate action and build on the state’s nation-leading biodiversity conservation goals. This ambitious 25-year plan defines a whole-of-government approach to rebuild biodiversity and invest in nature to sustain our health and well-being, food security, and economy.“Our membership in the IUCN strengthens the work already underway to protect what makes Massachusetts unique. Our wetlands, forests, and coastlines support local food systems, outdoor recreation, and the health and well-being of our residents,” said Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “Being part of this global network gives us added support to move this work forward, so we can better protect these resources and keep them accessible for the people who rely on them.”