US Announce $20m Investment To Support Indigenous Communities Accessing Climate Markets

Must Read

News in brief:
– Biden-Harris administration has announced allocating $20 million to support Indigenous communities in accessing emerging climate markets, fostering resilience and economic growth.
– This funding reflects a significant increase in collaborative efforts between USDA Forest Service and Tribes, aiming to advance environmental justice and drive climate action.

The Biden-Harris Administration has allocated $20 million to support federally recognised Tribes and Alaska Native corporations and villages in bolstering climate resilience and economic opportunities.

This investment, part of President Biden’s broader Investing in America agenda, aims to empower Indigenous communities to tap into emerging private markets for various environmental initiatives.

Agriculture Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small emphasised the importance of Tribal practices in fostering resilient forests and land management. This funding, made available through President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, seeks to broaden access to markets that address the pressing climate crisis, uphold Indigenous Knowledge, and boost local economies.

Substantial growth and policy adjustments

Deputy Secretary Torres Small talked about the investment during a meeting of the National Congress of American Indians, underlining the administration’s commitment to work with Tribal governments and communities. This initiative aligns with President Biden’s broader agenda to stimulate economic growth and foster a clean energy economy nationwide.

The investment reflects a substantial increase in collaborative efforts between the USDA Forest Service and Tribes, with fiscal year 2023 witnessing over 120 co-stewardship agreements, representing a $68 million investment. Notably, policy adjustments have been made to recognize the significance of Indigenous Knowledge and enhance Tribes’ access to USDA programs.

Furthermore, this announcement aligns with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, aiming to ensure that 40% of the benefits of Federal climate and clean energy investments reach disadvantaged communities, including all Federally Recognized Tribes and Tribal entities.

How to apply

Interested parties can submit proposals for this grant opportunity until Aug. 21, 2024, through grants.gov. These grants supplement existing agreements, including a $2 million direct award to the National Indian Carbon Coalition and a $13 million agreement with the Denali Commission. For more on Forest Service grant opportunities, visit the landowner support page. For more on how the Forest Service works with states, Tribes, and communities, visit the Forest Service private landowners page.

Ultimately, these funds are geared towards supporting participation in emerging private markets for climate mitigation and forest resilience. Activities may include developing forest management plans, reforestation efforts, establishing demonstration sites, and safeguarding biodiversity.

Chinwendu Ohabughiro
Chinwendu Ohabughiro
Chinwendu Gift Ohabughiro has a background in English and Literary Studies from Imo State University. She brings a fresh perspective to the world of agriculture writing. When she's not penning compelling content, she's likely lost in the pages of a thrilling mystery or treating herself to the sinful delight of chocolate.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

More Articles Like This

Latest News

Kwara Anglican Church Launches Multi-Million Naira Mechanised Farming

News in brief: - Kwara Anglican Diocese launches a major cassava and maize farm to address food security in Nigeria. -...

Subscribe

  • Gain full access to our premium content
  • Never miss a story with active notifications
  • Browse free from up to 5 devices at once