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The principles of natural climate solutions

Author

Listed:
  • Peter Woods Ellis

    (The Nature Conservancy)

  • Aaron Marr Page

    (Forum Nobis)

  • Stephen Wood

    (The Nature Conservancy)

  • Joseph Fargione

    (The Nature Conservancy)

  • Yuta J. Masuda

    (Paul G. Allen Family Foundation)

  • Vanessa Carrasco Denney

    (The Nature Conservancy)

  • Campbell Moore

    (The Nature Conservancy)

  • Timm Kroeger

    (The Nature Conservancy)

  • Bronson Griscom

    (Conservation International)

  • Jonathan Sanderman

    (Woodwell Climate Research Center)

  • Tyson Atleo

    (Nature United)

  • Rane Cortez

    (The Nature Conservancy)

  • Sara Leavitt

    (The Nature Conservancy)

  • Susan C. Cook-Patton

    (The Nature Conservancy)

Abstract

Natural climate solutions can mitigate climate change in the near-term, during a climate-critical window. Yet, persistent misunderstandings about what constitutes a natural climate solution generate unnecessary confusion and controversy, thereby delaying critical mitigation action. Based on a review of scientific literature and best practices, we distill five foundational principles of natural climate solutions (nature-based, sustainable, climate-additional, measurable, and equitable) and fifteen operational principles for practical implementation. By adhering to these principles, practitioners can activate effective and durable natural climate solutions, enabling the rapid and wide-scale adoption necessary to meaningfully contribute to climate change mitigation.

Suggested Citation

  • Peter Woods Ellis & Aaron Marr Page & Stephen Wood & Joseph Fargione & Yuta J. Masuda & Vanessa Carrasco Denney & Campbell Moore & Timm Kroeger & Bronson Griscom & Jonathan Sanderman & Tyson Atleo & R, 2024. "The principles of natural climate solutions," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 15(1), pages 1-12, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:15:y:2024:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-023-44425-2
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44425-2
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    References listed on IDEAS

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