H.R.es346 - Expressing the need for protecting and conserving at least 50 percent of the land, freshwater, and ocean ecosystems in the United States and encouraging diplomatic community efforts to achieve this goal worldwide. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.Res.346 expresses the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the need to protect and conserve at least 50% of the land, freshwater, and ocean ecosystems in the United States. It also encourages diplomatic efforts to achieve this goal worldwide. The resolution highlights the ongoing crisis of biodiversity loss and species extinction and emphasizes the importance of ecosystems in mitigating climate change.
Expected Effects
If passed, this resolution would signal Congressional support for ambitious conservation goals. It could lead to increased funding and policy initiatives aimed at protecting ecosystems. It may also influence international discussions and agreements related to biodiversity conservation.
Potential Benefits
- Environmental Protection: Protecting ecosystems leads to cleaner air and water.
- Climate Change Mitigation: Conserving natural areas helps sequester carbon.
- Economic Benefits: Outdoor recreation industries thrive with protected lands.
- Public Health: Access to nature improves mental and physical health.
- Biodiversity Preservation: Protecting habitats prevents species extinction.
Potential Disadvantages
- Economic Restrictions: Designating large areas for conservation could limit resource extraction and development.
- Land Use Conflicts: Restrictions on land use may impact private property owners and local communities.
- Implementation Challenges: Achieving such ambitious conservation goals requires significant resources and coordination.
- Potential for Inequitable Impacts: Conservation efforts could disproportionately affect certain communities if not implemented carefully.
- Uncertainty in Effectiveness: The effectiveness of protecting 50% of ecosystems in achieving biodiversity goals is subject to scientific debate.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution's preamble, which aims to "promote the general Welfare." Protecting ecosystems can be argued to contribute to the well-being of the population. However, the Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, raising questions about the extent to which the federal government can regulate land use for conservation purposes.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).