The principles of natural climate solutions
Peter W. Ellis, Aaron Marr Page, Stephen A. Wood, Joseph Fargione, Yuta J. Masuda, Vanessa Carrasco Denney, Campbell Moore, Timm Kroeger, Bronson W. Griscom, Jonathan Sanderman, Tyson Atleo, Rane Cortez, Sara M. Leavitt, Susan C. Cook‐Patton
Abstract
Natural climate solutions can mitigate climate change in the near-term, during a climate-critical window. Yet, persistent misunderstandings about what constitutes a natural climate solution generate unnecessary confusion and controversy, thereby delaying critical mitigation action. Based on a review of scientific literature and best practices, we distill five foundational principles of natural climate solutions (nature-based, sustainable, climate-additional, measurable, and equitable) and fifteen operational principles for practical implementation. By adhering to these principles, practitioners can activate effective and durable natural climate solutions, enabling the rapid and wide-scale adoption necessary to meaningfully contribute to climate change mitigation.