Protecting Natural Resources
Massachusetts’ natural land, air, and water play a crucial role in reducing emissions, making our communities more resilient, and improving public health. Protecting these natural resources is a smart investment that both reduces the risk of costly climate change-related damage and supports the tourism, agriculture, outdoor recreation, fishing, and clean energy industries that are creating jobs and economic growth.
ELM advocates for outcomes that increase funding for natural resource protection, support climate preparedness, adaptation and resilience, sustainably finance land protection for people and nature, reduce waste, and reform pesticide use. Learn more about our legislative priorities for natural resource protection.
RELATED DECISIONS:
August 21, 2025 – In August 2023, Governor Healey signed an executive order directing Massachusetts to establish nation-leading biodiversity and conservation goals to better protect natural resources and prepare for the accelerating impacts of climate change.
Following a two-year stakeholder process, the Administration has now released its final goals and implementation plan. The strategy sets benchmarks for 2030, 2040, and 2050, aligns with the Commonwealth’s broader climate planning efforts, and establishes a new Biodiversity Officer within the Department of Fish and Game to coordinate action across state agencies.
ELM applauds the Administration for advancing a comprehensive plan to safeguard Massachusetts’ lands, waters, and wildlife, and looks forward to ensuring these goals are backed by the funding and accountability needed to deliver lasting results.
