WWF Statement on The Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Reauthorization Act

Today, The Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Reauthorization Act (TFCA) was introduced by Senators Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Tom Udall (D-New Mexico). This legislation will extend the TFCA program for five years and allow developing countries to relieve debt owed to the US in exchange for long-term commitments to protect tropical forests and coral reefs, in partnership with civil society and the private sector.

In response, World Wildlife Fund (WWF) issued the following statement from Kerry Cesareo, senior vice president for forests:

“The Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Act is a program with proven results, having protected millions of acres of forests while strengthening America’s partnerships with developing nations.

“In recent years, Congress reauthorized this innovative program with overwhelming support and expanded it to include coral reef ecosystems. We welcome this bipartisan effort to extend the program for another five years and to continue the vital work of promoting economic prosperity while protecting irreplaceable natural treasures.”