Community-Led Solutions to Climate Change

California’s goal to reach carbon neutrality by 2045 can feel daunting and somewhat elusive. The Community Environmental Council (CEC) believes we can get there, but it will take all of us, working together. That’s why the 50-plus-year-old Santa Barbara-based nonprofit focuses on community-led solutions that everyone can participate in:

Electrify Your Life

Switching to zero-emissions solutions in your home or business is a great way to take part in reducing our collective impact on the planet. Whether buying or leasing an electric vehicle (EV), installing an EV charging station, adding solar, or upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, these seemingly small actions help our region and the state transition to 100% clean, efficient energy. CEC’s free Electrify Your Life service provides information and guidance on electrification options and available incentives. cecsb.org/electrify-your-life 

Become a CEC Climate Steward

CEC has certified more than 160 students, retirees, non-profit professionals, and community members as CEC Climate Stewards, equipped with the knowledge and resources to lead climate action in their communities, schools, churches, museums, businesses, homeowner associations, retirement centers, and wherever they have influence. Offered three times per year, the nine-week course is open to anyone interested in taking bold climate action that has far-reaching impact. cecsb.org/climate-stewards 

Help Develop a Community Resilience Hub

When we’re experiencing extreme heat, heavy smoke from a wildfire, or other climate stress, Community Resilience Hubs offer a trusted place for shelter and resources. CEC has built partnerships across communities to pilot community-led hubs in Carpinteria, Eastside Santa Barbara, and Cuyama, creating a template with toolkits so that future hubs can be launched faster and easier in our region and beyond. cecsb.org/resilience-hubs 

Visit CEC’s Environmental Hub

Located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, CEC’s Environmental Hub is a nexus for advocacy, innovation, and community empowerment. Home to CEC’s staff offices and local nonprofits like White Buffalo Land Trust and Human Rights Watch, the 10,000-square-foot space hosts dozens of events throughout the year — from lectures and film screenings to meetings and social gatherings — that catalyze collective action. envirohubsb.org

Plant Pollinator Habitat 

Including pollinator habitat in your backyard, farm, or ranch helps stop erosion and water runoff, recharges water storage, and protects crops. This climate-smart agricultural practice increases carbon sequestration, water infiltration, and biodiversity. That’s why CEC is working with land owners and stewards to plant pollinator habitat, share resources, and empower individuals to help our lands adapt to climate change. cecsb.org/climate-smart-agriculture

Not long ago, it was believed that climate action on a national level was the way to make an impact on climate change. Over the past five decades, CEC has seen firsthand how local actions pave the way to achieving state, national, and global climate goals. The organization has demonstrated that the California Central Coast is primed to act as a lighthouse community that incubates and pilots ideas and models them for other regions. And they hope you are willing to join them in this urgent work.