Image source: Unsplash
Neither existing nor proposed climate policy is enough to tackle climate change.
The Green New Deal is an ambitious climate policy proposal, yet it forgets about the oceans. To succeed, it must therefore be paired with a Blue New Deal, which centers ocean-based climate concerns and solutions. This combination would give humanity a better chance at addressing the climate crisis.
But, right now, the Green and Blue New Deals are only a vision.
The Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act (OBCSA) is a reality! Sort of.
What is the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act?
The Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act capitalizes on how the oceans can help fight climate change.
House Natural Resources Committee Chair Raúl M. Grijalva (D-AZ) first introduced the bill to Congress in October 2020. The bill did not make it out of committee in the 116th Congress.
On June 8, 2021—World Oceans Day—Rep. Grijalva reintroduced the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act to the 117th Congress. This past summer, the Natural Resources Committee held a hearing and now the 2021 OBCSA is slowly advancing through Congress.
What is included in the current bill?
A lot—and that’s a good thing! The bill is as comprehensive as any ocean-centric climate plan has ever been.
From focusing on providing offshore wind energy while limiting oil and gas developments to improving overall ocean health by addressing ocean acidification and harmful algal blooms, the bill covers a wide range of ocean-related issues and climate solutions.
Other highlights of the bill’s 300+ pages include prioritization of climate-ready fisheries by adjusting fishing and aquaculture practices, protecting and utilizing “blue carbon” spaces such as marshlands for carbon sequestration, and promoting technological advances to boost sustainable shipping and trade practices.
Another important provision is a tax on virgin (new) plastics, which aim to reduce production of single-use plastics. Many such plastics end up in the ocean and kill marine life. The tax would also help to fund other programs included in the OBCSA.
Plastics are a large source of pollution in our oceans. (Image source: Unsplash)
Does the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act address environmental justice?
A key emphasis in the 2021 bill is a commitment to including Indigenous voices in crafting climate solutions. The bill also highlights the importance of recognizing tribal autonomy over ancestral lands.
One provision authorizes the Tribal Resilience Program, which would be a subgroup of the White House Council on Native American Affairs. This program would provide funding for Indigenous communities to carry out traditional practices that promote coastal resiliency and combat climate change.
Additionally, a number of provisions center the need for recognizing and legitimizing traditional Indigenous knowledge. This knowledge can and should serve as a legitimate source of ocean-based climate solutions from ocean conservation to coastal management efforts.
Does the bill have any support?
It does—in fact, over 130 organizations and 19 aquariums have signed on to show their support for the OBSCA. The House Committee hearing last June featured a wide range of supporting voices including those of elected officials, independent scientists, and policy advisors.
Nevertheless, getting the OBCSA to a vote, muchless signed into law, is going to take a lot of work. The political divide over climate change and the need for climate solutions—despite there being no divide over the facts of climate change amongst scientists—means turbulent seas ahead for the bill.
How can I help make this bill a reality?
If you want to see the OBCSA signed into law, you need to tell your congressperson that’s what you want!
So, take a few minutes to call or email your congressperson. Don’t know who your congressperson is? Use the resources below to find out.
Find Your Congressperson
Find your representative: https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative
Find your senator: https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm