© Cassidy Girvin/TNC Photo Contest 2021

Nature-based Solutions in Virginia

Natural Climate Solutions, also called Nature-Based Solutions, are actions that reduce emissions and increase carbon storage in forests, farms, grasslands and wetlands, while providing a host of additional benefits for people and the environment. 

Practices that could be included are actions like encouraging farming techniques that retain carbon in the soil, such as planting cover crops; conserving and replanting forests; conserving and restoring coastal wetlands; and reducing the loss of natural areas, planting trees, and providing parks in communities. 

Not only do these efforts help address climate change – they can improve water quality, prevent natural disasters like wildfire, drought, and flooding, protect wildlife habitat, and provide opportunities for hiking and fishing. Best of all, these solutions are cost effective, and can often improve local economies.

Below you can explore how people in Virginia are benefiting from implementing nature-based solutions in their community through a diverse set of resources from USN4C members and others, including blog articles, videos, comprehensive reports, and more.

© The Nature Conservancy (left)
© Michael Cornish for TNC (right)

U.S. Nature4Climate/The Nature Conservancy Article: Virginia Seagrass Restoration Project Establishes a Model for Similar Action Worldwide

© Jon Golden/TNC

The Nature Conservancy Article: The Cumberland Forest Project: Conservation at Scale

© Alex Novak/TNC

The Nature Conservancy Article: Marine Habitat Restoration

The Nature Conservancy Report: Our Virginia: 2024 Impact Report

The Nature Conservancy Video: Supporting Coastal Communities

A new national survey conducted by U.S. Nature4Climate shows that voters across party lines support natural climate solutions more than ever, suggesting fertile ground for bi-partisan cooperation and consensus-building, opening up new avenues for climate action. Learn more.

Explore U.S. Climate Alliance‘s Climate Policy Database.

Explore Nature4Communities, a resource that shows you how nature-based solutions are critical for your community’s well-being and become a better advocate for their implementation.