Natural Climate Solutions Grants
Natural Climate Solutions Grants support New Jersey governments, nonprofits, colleges, and landowners in restoring coastal, forest, and urban carbon sinks to reduce emissions and benefit communities.
Funder: New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
Due Dates: December 31, 2026 (Round 2 applications)
Funding Amounts: $60 million dedicated to Round 2 blue and green carbon projects; three-year project timelines
Summary: Supports on-the-ground restoration and enhancement of New Jersey’s coastal, forest, and urban carbon sinks.
Key Information: Grants reimburse documented expenditures; private landowners must provide at least 25% matching funds.
Description
The Natural Climate Solutions Grant program, administered by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), funds on-the-ground projects that create, restore, and enhance the state’s natural carbon sinks. These include salt marshes, seagrass beds, forests, urban parks and woodlands, and street trees. Funding comes from Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative auction proceeds and supports New Jersey’s climate, clean energy, and equity goals.
Round 2 supports two initiatives: Promoting Blue Carbon in Coastal Areas and Enhancing Forests and Urban Forests (Green Carbon). Projects combine carbon sequestration with benefits for environmental quality, ecosystem services, and local communities. The program contributes to the state’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 80% below 2006 levels by 2050.
