Recently, Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez (R- Doral) and Representative Lindsay Cross (D- St. Petersburg) filed SB 1258 and HB 1187, for the 2024 Legislative Session.
These bills establish a new multi-disciplinary and interagency task force entrusted with developing the framework for a state-level carbon sequestration program. The task force would study suitable habitat and land uses for carbon sequestration, establish methodology, metrics, and benchmarks for success, and identify funding and market opportunities for a carbon sequestration program. Adjunct to the Department of Environmental Protection, the task force has a two-year timeline to complete its study and submit a report to the legislature with its findings and recommendations.
“As Senator of District 40, where there are many natural wonders, I am excited to sponsor this bill that will establish a task force for a state-level carbon sequestration program. It will serve as another tool to protect our natural resources and increase our state’s resiliency,” said Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez.
“With an abundance of land and marine resources, Florida can be a leader in carbon sequestration. This task force will help us identify how we can optimize carbon storage in our natural and agricultural areas for the benefit of our environment, our economy and our food systems. The challenges posed to Florida by climate change will not be solved overnight, and we need comprehensive and innovative strategies to prepare for the future. I’m hopeful that the results of this task force will improve our land and marine use policies to make Florida safer and more sustainable,” said Representative Lindsay Cross.
“Florida’s marine environments and natural and working lands hold vast potential for carbon sequestration that can bolster this state’s resiliency. At a time when Florida needs every tool at its disposal to protect residents from the compounding threats of sea level rise and climate change, a state-level carbon sequestration program will help support long-term resiliency goals while rewarding habitat restoration, compatible land use policies, and sustainable agricultural practices.” added Emma Haydocy, Florida Policy Manager at the Surfrider Foundation.
