California is a biodiversity hotspot, home to more species than any other U. S. state. That's why the Golden State sent a big delegation to the United Nations biodiversity summit in Colombia. The goal? To protect 30% of the world's land and water by 2030. Even though the U. S. hasn't ratified the biodiversity treaty, California is leading by example. It has its own 30 by 30 target, and other regions are looking to California for guidance.

California's Natural Resources Secretary, Wade Crowfoot, is in Colombia to share California's success story. The state has been working hard to protect nature and fight climate change. Crowfoot says it's not just about protecting nature; it's about restoring it so it can help fight climate change.

At the summit, California is advocating for faster action, sharing its experiences, and learning from others. Indigenous leaders are playing a big role in these discussions. California is supporting two tribes that want to create national monuments.

The U. S. not ratifying the biodiversity treaty doesn't stop California from being a leader. The Biden administration is involved, and California is pushing for more national monuments.

California's Push to Protect Nature: A Global Example

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