California 30x30
Protecting 30% of lands and coastal waters because life depends on it.
Scientists worldwide agree that we must protect 30% of the world’s lands and coastal waters by 2030 to stave off the worst impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss. But this 30×30 goal is only a step on the way to achieving 50×50—a target introduced by ecologist E.O. Wilson and supported by experts worldwide to protect the foundations of life as we know it. California is a global 30×30 leader, among the first in the world to develop a detailed strategy and adopt the goal as law. CNPS is a committed partner in this ambitious and crucial effort to protect the state’s remarkable biodiversity working with tribes and communities statewide.
California Strong
California has a long history as an environmental leader, and in 2020 became the first state in the nation to commit to reaching the 30×30 goal. But California’s goal is about more than conservation. Through its Pathways to 30×30 strategy, the State is committed to environmental protection alongside equitable access to nature, climate resilience, tribal partnerships, and economic benefit.
Today, hundreds of organizations and thousands of people statewide have dedicated themselves to achieving this important milestone. CNPS is engaged at all levels through regional working groups, the statewide Power in Nature coalition, and as official members of the California Biodiversity Network and 30×30 Partnership Coordinating Committee.
Momentum is strong with more than 26% of lands now protected. Will we reach the 30×30 goal? The answer is up to each of us.
Power in Nature
CNPS is a proud partner of the Power in Nature coalition, a vibrant statewide movement of more than 500 community groups, environmental and conservation organizations, land trusts, indigenous organizations and tribal members dedicated to advancing California’s 30×30 commitment. Together, the coalition helped make 30×30 law, pass California’s Prop 4 climate bond, and advance annual legislative victories for conservation, tribal priorities, and equitable access to nature.
California Pathways to 30x30
Get to know California’s 30×30 strategy, one of the most advanced 30×30 planning documents in the world. The inspiring document includes 10 key pathways to achieving our target with examples of the work in action. From public lands protection to restoration and stewardship, each of us can find meaningful ways to get involved.
30x30 Mapping and Data Tools
Explore the California Natural Resources Agency CA Nature platform and Power in Nature’s Storymap of 30×30 projects. You’ll find progress near you and projects that need your support.
30x30 and California Native Plants
CNPS is a long-time proponent of regional, large-scale conservation and restoration, from national monument campaigns to hyper-local 30×30 projects. When we work together to protect intact ecosystems, connect fragmented habitat, and manage healthy landscapes, we protect California’s plant diversity and all the life that depends on them.
Our mission, vision, and values drive everything we do.
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