California’s Nature-based Climate Solutions: Building Healthy Soils and Sequestering Carbon

Press Conference 2, Area D, United Nations climate conference, COP30 in Belém, Brazil

During this press conference, which took place in Belém, Brazil at COP30, Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Karen Ross joined The Climate Center’s Legislative Manager Allison Hilliard to discuss California’s Healthy Soils Program. Secretary Ross explained how the program is helping to shift California farmers’ practices to composting, cover crops, and hedgerows that support biodiversity for long-term productivity on farms. These practices also produce healthier foods and help with nutrient cycling and water retention in soils. Secretary Ross also highlighted California’s ongoing agricultural partnerships with countries that have similar climates, including Spain, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and Israel.

Speaker

Karen Ross

Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture

Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), Karen Ross. Secretary Ross is passionate about fostering consumers’ reconnection to the land and the people who produce their food. She is also passionate about improving the access of all California citizens to healthy, nutritious California-grown agricultural products. Secretary Ross has strengthened partnerships across government, academia, and the non-profit sector in the drive to maintain and improve environmental stewardship and to develop adaptation strategies for the specific impacts of climate change.

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Allison Hilliard

Legislative Manager

Allison joined The Climate Center in January of 2025 as the Legislative Manager. In this role, she works closely with the initiative leaders and other staff to ensure California implements policies that effectively reduce climate pollution and secure resilient communities. Allison is The Climate Center’s voice in Sacramento, representing the organization to advocate and build coalitions and partnerships to support The Climate Center’s goals and secure a climate-safe future for all. 

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