The U.S. National Nature Assessment (NNA) is a major initiative by the U.S. government to evaluate the condition of its natural resources. This undertaking is the first of its kind for the United States, aiming to provide a holistic picture of America’s lands, waters, wildlife, and ecosystems. The assessment also examines the wide array of benefits these natural systems provide to people across the country.
Goals of the Assessment
The National Nature Assessment aims to understand the relationships between nature and human society. It evaluates the status, trends, and future projections of America’s natural assets, including their connections to the economy, public health, social well-being, equity, climate mitigation, adaptation, and national security.
The NNA provides scientific information to policymakers, businesses, and the public. This data supports better decision-making regarding conservation, resource management, and sustainable development. By establishing an ecological baseline, the assessment allows for future comparisons and insights to address environmental challenges.
Key Areas of Evaluation
The National Nature Assessment provides a detailed examination of several interconnected components of nature and its human interface. One primary focus is Biodiversity and Ecosystems, assessing the condition and trends of diverse ecosystems across the U.S., such as forests, wetlands, and marine environments. This includes analyzing the variety of life these ecosystems support, along with how their health may change over time and space. Scientists are compiling data on indicators like species populations and habitat loss to understand these trends.
The assessment also delves into the Economic Contributions derived from nature, often referred to as “ecosystem services.” These services include natural processes like the provision of clean air and water, the pollination of crops, and natural flood control. The NNA highlights how these services underpin various industries and support jobs, revealing the tangible value of healthy ecosystems that traditional economic metrics like Gross Domestic Product (GDP) might overlook.
Another significant area of evaluation is the link between nature and Human Health and Well-being. This section explores how access to green spaces and healthy environments contributes to physical and mental health. Conversely, it also examines the risks posed to human well-being by environmental degradation, such as air and water pollution. Understanding these connections can inform public health strategies and urban planning.
The NNA further considers the Social and Cultural Values of nature, recognizing its profound role in cultural heritage, community identity, and spiritual practices. This includes emphasizing the deep connections and knowledge held by Indigenous communities regarding the natural world. By integrating these diverse perspectives, the assessment aims for a more complete understanding of nature’s societal significance.
The Assessment Process
The creation of the National Nature Assessment is a collaborative and multi-faceted endeavor led by the U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP). This extensive process involves numerous federal agencies, including the U.S. Geological Survey and NASA, which contribute data and expertise. Hundreds of independent scientists and experts from universities, non-governmental organizations, and other sectors also participate in compiling and analyzing the vast amounts of scientific data.
A distinctive feature of this assessment is its commitment to incorporating Indigenous Knowledge alongside conventional scientific data. This ensures a more holistic and culturally informed understanding of nature and its changes. The NNA also emphasizes transparency and inclusivity through various public engagement opportunities. This includes soliciting public comments on proposed themes and chapter outlines, allowing diverse stakeholders to contribute to the assessment’s development.
Anticipated Impacts on Policy and Society
The findings of the National Nature Assessment are expected to serve as a foundational resource, shaping decisions and actions across various sectors. The assessment will inform national, tribal, state, and local government policies related to conservation, land use planning, and environmental protection. It will provide policymakers with robust scientific evidence to develop more effective and targeted strategies for managing natural resources.
The NNA’s insights are also poised to guide business decisions and investments. By highlighting nature-related risks and opportunities, such as the economic value of ecosystem services or vulnerabilities to environmental degradation, the assessment can influence corporate sustainability practices and financial disclosures. This understanding can lead to more nature-positive investments and reduced environmental impacts from economic activities.
The assessment will empower communities with localized data and information, enabling them to advocate for their local environments and participate more effectively in environmental decision-making processes. Ultimately, the NNA aims to shape future conservation strategies and resource management practices across the United States, fostering a more sustainable relationship between people and nature.