Legislation establishing a global conservation fund moves forward in House

WASHINGTON (March 25, 2024) – The House Foreign Affairs Committee last week approved a bill that would establish a U.S.-led public private grant-making entity that would fund as much as $2 billion to conserve vulnerable habitat around the world over the next decade.

The legislation to establish the U.S. Foundation for International Conservation was sponsored by Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Tex.) with bipartisan support.

“Right now vulnerable wildlife and environmentally important landscapes are facing a biodiversity crisis that transcends borders,” said Aurelio Ramos, senior vice president for international alliances at the National Audubon Society. “U.S. leadership in investing in vulnerable habitats around the world is critical for our shared survival. These funds will help conserve both migratory and non-migratory birds and other species that play critical roles in their ecosystems, and create a better future for us all.”

The new foundation would leverage capital from private and philanthropic sectors to make awards for conservation efforts that are cost-matched, have support and engagement from host countries and local populations, create economic opportunities, and demonstrate plans to transfer management skills to local institutions.