While we reduce greenhouse gases across all sectors, we are also working to invest in healthier landscapes that capture carbon and buffer against climate consequences like catastrophic flooding and wildlife. Nature-based solutions like trees and soil can capture excess carbon and build a more resilient environment. This is a win-win that supports rural economies and healthy, resilient ecosystems.
We see the benefits of investing in natural climate solutions in our forests and across Washington’s watershed. Natural climate solutions protect public health, local economies and quality of life for communities.
Our state’s natural and working landscapes can draw down existing carbon pollution. Our work is to harness the power of natural and working landscapes to absorb and capture carbon that pollutes our atmosphere and destabilizes the climate. These solutions increase carbon sequestration and provide resilient defenses against fire, flooding, and sea level rise. And, results in stronger and healthier forests, farms, and aquatic lands.
Ecosystem Services
Beyond their carbon-capture potential, science tells us that our working and natural landscapes provide crucial co-benefits that safeguard communities from climate impacts. Healthy forests improve air quality and reduce wildfire risk. Regenerative agriculture reduces runoff and improves water quality. Connected coastal wetlands buffer against severe storms while supporting salmon, shellfish, and other wildlife—along with the jobs that depend on them.
