SECTION 1. Chapter 23J of the General Laws is hereby amended by inserting after section 6 the following new section:-

Section 6A. Statewide plan for protecting carbon sequestration in public and private woodlands and woodlots

The Center shall undertake a study of public and private woodlands and woodlots in the Commonwealth to measure the aggregate amount of carbon sequestered in said woodlands and woodlots in the trees, roots and soil.  Within 240 days of said study’s completion, the Center shall develop and implement a comprehensive statewide plan for the protection of both public and private woodlands and woodlots that shall include policies for maintaining, enhancing and protecting the carbon sequestered.  The Center shall also work in collaboration with the Executive Office of Energy and the Environment to establish policies and procedures where the aggregate amount of the annual estimate of carbon sequestered in public and private woodlands and woodlots shall be included as part of the Commonwealth’s climate change goals and renewable energy targets, and carbon emission reduction goals as provided in the Green Communities Act.