Extinction is a natural phenomenon. But the rate at which we’re losing fish, plants and animals has been speeding up exponentially in recent decades. Scientists now estimate we could lose half of all species by 2050.

These signs of loss are everywhere—tropical forests, coastal wetlands and other natural areas that are prime habitat for plants and animals are deteriorating worldwide. We need to develop innovative solutions to fuel conservation efforts in these and other species-rich and vulnerable parts of the world.

Proposed federal legislation, called the U.S. Foundation for International Conservation Act, would establish a dedicated entity that would leverage government, private sector and philanthropic funding to support local communities and Indigenous Peoples around the world who want to manage protected and conserved areas effectively. The fund would include up to $100 million annually and incentivize matching funding from private entities, including philanthropies.

For decades, governments around the world have funded conservation initiatives that protect the lands and waters that sustain our planet’s health. But their funding is no longer adequate to meet the growing challenges we face.

It’s time we take bold action to halt the catastrophic biodiversity loss happening globally. Add your name so your members of Congress know you’re counting on them to protect our planet’s wildlife and wild places.