Baani Behniwal

Natural Sequestration Initiative Manager

Baani joined The Climate Center in June of 2022 as the Natural Sequestration Initiative Manager. In this role, she leads the organization’s work on advancing nature-based carbon sequestration solutions to fight the climate crisis while protecting our natural lands and delivering a multitude of co-benefits for both the environment and affected communities.

Prior to The Climate Center, Baani worked as a consultant with the Community Alliance with Family Farmers where she assisted small and mid-scale farmers with funding opportunities to remain operational during emergencies like drought, wildfire, and the pandemic. Baani also spent over two years working as a policy analyst and registered lobbyist at Californians Against Waste where she advocated for circular economy policies at the state legislature, including reducing single-use plastics and strengthening organic waste management programs. She also has experience with community organizing, regenerative farming, federal food policy, and international sustainable development.

Baani holds dual M.A. degrees in International Affairs and Natural Resources & Sustainable Development from American University and the UN-mandated University for Peace, as well as a B.S. in Cognitive Science from the University of California, Irvine. When she’s not working, you can find her biking around Sacramento, attending concerts and comedy shows, backpacking, and, of course, dancing.