Leonardo DiCaprio Instagram – New York is poised to become the first state to use its purchasing power as one of the world’s largest economies to combat climate change and biodiversity loss. The New York Tropical Deforestation-Free Procurement Act, which would prevent the state from purchasing wood and agricultural products that contribute to tropical deforestation, received bipartisan support in passing the state legislature and the bill is now ready for @govkathyhochul’s signature. Tropical deforestation is largely the result of the grazing of cattle and the growth of livestock feed, in addition to the production of commodities such as palm oil, wood, cocoa, coffee and rubber. It is the number one driver of biodiversity loss and a major driver of climate change. This Act would also ensure that the state is not contributing to the abuses of the rights of Indigenous peoples and local communities associated with tropical deforestation. The bill’s supporters, who are urging the governor to sign, include not only Indigenous leaders and climate and social justice groups, but New York-based businesses that see this as a win-win for the state’s economy, for global climate, and for human rights. #ActForForests Photo by Robin Moore, Re:wild @foe_us @nationalwildlife @environmentaladvocatesny @eiaenvironment @tonyschocolonely_us @nrdc_org @rewild