Biden Says He Will Conserve 30% of US Lands by...2020?

President Biden has a bold vision for conserving America's natural heritage: to protect 30 percent of the nation's land and water by 2030. This ambitious goal, known as "30 by 30", is part of his plan to tackle the climate crisis and restore biodiversity. But did he get the timeline right? In a recent speech in California, where he announced $600 million to fight climate-driven disasters, Biden said: "I've committed that by 2020, we will have conserved 30% of all the lands & waters..." Wait a minute, 2020? That was three years ago, and before he even became president! Maybe he meant 2030, which is the actual target year for the 30 by 30 initiative. Or maybe he was thinking of his previous administration, when he served as vice president under Barack Obama, who established several national monuments and marine sanctuaries. Or maybe he was just having a senior moment. Whatever the case, Biden's slip-up did not go unnoticed by his critics, who seized the opportunity to mock him on social media and question his mental fitness. Some also accused him of trying to grab land from private owners and restrict their use of natural resources. But Biden's supporters defended him, saying he misspoke and corrected himself later in the speech. They also praised him for his leadership on conservation and environmental issues, pointing out his achievements such as creating two new national monuments in Nevada and Texas, and directing the Commerce Department to consider expanding protections for the Pacific Remote Islands. Biden's 30 by 30 plan is part of a global effort to conserve nature and combat climate change. More than 50 countries have joined the initiative, which aims to protect at least 30 percent of the world's land and ocean by 2030. Scientists say this is necessary to prevent mass extinctions, safeguard ecosystems, and ensure human well-being. Biden has said that his administration will work with local communities, tribal nations, farmers, ranchers, fishermen, and other stakeholders to achieve the 30 by 30 goal in a way that respects their rights and interests. He has also pledged to provide more access to nature for disadvantaged groups and promote outdoor recreation and education. Biden's 30 by 30 plan is a historic opportunity to conserve and restore America's lands and waters for future generations. But first, he might want to get the date right.