Advocating for Strong U.S. Climate Legislation

Global warming poses an unprecedented threat to the wildlife and wild places we cherish, and to the natural resources that people and wildlife depend on for their everyday survival. The science has confirmed if we don't take decisive action now to reduce carbon pollution, in the lifetime of a child born today one-third of all wildlife species will be at increased risk of extinction.

The National Wildlife Federation works across the country to advocate for legislation that will help stop carbon pollution and protect America's communities and wildlife from a changing climate.

What Makes Good Climate Legislation?

NWF's top priority is the passage of federal legislation that:

• Limits carbon dioxide pollution and other air pollutants that cause climate change.
• Provides funding to protect our nation's wildlife and natural resources that are being impacted by global warming.
• Provides assistance and opportunities to under-served communities that are feeling the greatest economic and environmental impacts from our current energy policies.
• Ensures that forests and farmland are properly managed to help alleviate the effects of global warming.
• Provides funding for education and training for green jobs.
• Ensures federal commitment to protecting the world's tropical forests.

Progress on Policy Goal

In June 2009, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act, which will reduce emissions and has provisions to safeguard wildlife.

A counterpart bill, the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act, passed the Environment committee in the Senate, but a comprehensive clean energy and climate bill needs to pass the Senate for these policies to become law.

• Learn more about NWF's work to increase funding for wildlife and ecosystem conservation  
• Learn about NWF's work to reduce carbon pollution