On Tuesday, House Democrats introduced a bill to advance climate solutions in and around the ocean, recognizing that ocean-based climate action could provide one-fifth of the emissions reductions needed to limit global warming to 1.5°C. Proposals in the the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act include banning oil and gas leasing throughout the Outer Continental Shelf, setting a national goal to protect 30 percent of the ocean by 2030, increasing offshore wind production, protecting “blue carbon” ecosystems like mangroves that remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and investing $3 billion in coastal resilience to address rising sea levels. “As a scientist, I know that the ocean is often seen as a victim of climate change, but in truth, it is also a powerful source of solutions,” former NOAA Administrator Jane Lubchenko said on a press call, “I think it’s high time for ocean climate action.” While the bill won’t become law during this Congress, Democrats are treating it as a legislative guide if the party should win control of the Senate in the November election. (PoliticoThe HillRoll CallUndercurrent NewsSeafood Source)