About

Overview

The Indigenous Greenhouse Gas Removal Commission (IGGRC) is a consortium of federally recognized tribal governments, with associate membership for Indigenous groups worldwide, dedicated to addressing the urgent threat of climate change and the removal of greenhouse gases. Rooted in the inherent duty of Indigenous Peoples and Tribal Nations to combat climate change, the IGGRC serves as a collaborative hub for Tribes to drive the advancement and implementation of carbon removal technologies while ensuring the incorporation of traditional ecological knowledge alongside scientific rigor.

The IGGRC is led by President Fawn Sharp (Quinault Indian Nation). Founding member tribes include Snoqualmie Indian Tribe, Squaxin Island Tribe and Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana.

Under the President Sharp’s leadership, the IGGRC advocates for Tribal-led solutions, equitable policies, and collaborations among Tribal Nations, the broader greenhouse gas removal industry, and public sector and non-profit funders, providing a sustainable framework for long-term Tribal leadership, fostering continuity, and stability in addressing these challenges while building capacity for self-governance and self-determination.

Why Greenhouse Gas Removal

While reducing fossil fuel emissions and decarbonizing various sectors are essential for climate targets, experts emphasize that emission reduction alone is insufficient. We must actively extract CO2 and other greenhouse gases from the atmosphere to stabilize our planet. To meet this challenge, a new industry is emerging, comprising natural and engineered solutions. Natural solutions include forestry management, soil management, and wetlands restoration, while technological methods involve direct air capture, carbon mineralization, and bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS). We recognize the significance of natural solutions while acknowledging the potential of hybrid and engineered technologies to address this unprecedented challenge.

Why an Intertribal Commission

Indian Country must play a leading role in shaping this burgeoning trillion-dollar industry by establishing a united, influential voice through the IGGRC. The commission will provide:

  • Resources: A centralized hub offering research, educational materials, and advisory services.

  • Advocacy: Dedicated representation and advocacy for Tribal governments in the sphere of greenhouse gas removal.

  • Policy Influence: Ensuring Indian Country's significant influence on the governance and policies governing this emerging industry.

  • Opportunity and Risk Assessments: Conducting comprehensive evaluations of the implications posed be emerging greenhouse gas removal technologies and methods, striking a balance between economic opportunities and the protection of our lands and cultures.

  • Member Recruitment: Membership has no cost for tribes and can be done simply by resolution.

Get Involved

We firmly believe that the history of Tribal land stewardship, the economic prospects presented by this industry, and the inherent sovereignty of Tribal nations are indispensable in crafting effective climate solutions. We call upon Tribal leaders, climate experts, industry stakeholders, and government agencies to join us in this vital endeavor to create a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

Reach out to us at admin@iggrc.org.