06/24/26

Climate Action Stories, News, and Updates Welcome to the County of San Diego's Climate Action e-Newsletter, featuring recent accomplishments, news, and data-driven status reports on the implementation of County sustainability programs and the Climate Action Plan. Read the latest issue. Continue Reading Article

06/24/26

CropSWAP Demonstration Day Showcases Climate-Smart Farming CropSWAP is a regional incentive program that helps growers transition from high-water-use crops to more water-efficient and climate-resilient options. Continue Reading Article

06/24/26

Celebrating Spring Valley’s Sustainable Environment & Engaged Development Strategies The County is celebrating the successful completion of the Transformative Climate Communities Planning Grant – Sustainable Environment and Engaged Development Strategies, a community driven effort in Spring Valley focused on creating healthier and more sustainable neighborhoods. Continue Reading Article

05/22/26

70th Annual Bike Month! Biking to Cleaner, Healthier, and More Connected Communities May is Bike Month which is the perfect time to enjoy the health benefits of cycling, connect with your community, and help reduce vehicle emissions! Continue Reading Article

05/22/26

County Experience: Insights from Student Fellows Over the past academic year, the County hosted four California College Corps Fellows who gained hands-on experience while supporting sustainability goals. Continue Reading Article

05/22/26

Ninth Annual State of Biodiversity Symposium The San Diego Natural History Museum’s Annual State of Biodiversity event brought together professionals to explore the importance of biodiversity. Continue Reading Article

04/21/26

Earth Day: A Global Movement for Change Explore how Earth Month began and how it has evolved over the decades into a global effort focused on environmental justice, sustainability, and meaningful social progress. Continue Reading Article

04/21/26

Species Spotlight: American Peregrine Falcon The Peregrine Falcon is renowned for its incredible speed, remarkable hunting skills, and striking appearance, making it one of the most iconic and easily recognized birds of prey in San Diego County. Continue Reading Article

04/21/26

Your Yard Can Make a Difference: Inside the Waterscape Rebate Program The Waterscape Rebate Program provides technical guidance and financial incentives to help homeowners and businesses enhance water quality and reduce water use through sustainable landscaping practices. Continue Reading Article

04/21/26

Prepare Today for Tomorrow’s Emergencies Improve your emergency readiness by staying up to date on important information, building a clear preparedness plan, and understanding useful strategies that can help protect you during a crisis. Continue Reading Article

03/24/26

Take Charge of Energy and Water Use For Free! The County’s Do-It-Yourself Sustainability Toolkit Program supports unincorporated residents in conserving energy and water, helping lower utility costs by providing toolkits available for loan at no cost! Continue Reading Article

03/24/26

Highlights from 13th Annual Zero Waste Symposium The 13th Annual Zero Waste Symposium featured keynote presentations, legislative updates, and sessions highlighting statewide initiatives and community-level successes to reduce waste. Continue Reading Article

02/20/26

County Moves Toward Zero-Carbon Future with Building Code and Incentive Program Updates The County's Triennial Code Update ensures all new and renovated buildings meet higher energy efficiency standards while offering reduced fees and faster permitting through voluntary green practices. Continue Reading Article

02/20/26

Climate-Smart Land Stewardship: Partners Share Progress Learn about the County’s progress on implementing the California Department of Conservation’s Climate Smart Land Management Grant and how it supports sustainable agriculture. Continue Reading Article

01/21/26

The County’s Equity-Driven Tree Planting Program Earns Award The County Equity-Driven Tree Planting Program was recently awarded the Outstanding Urban Forestry Program Award by the San Diego Regional Urban Forests Council. Continue Reading Article

01/21/26

A New Year for a More Sustainable San Diego The new year is a great time to consider building sustainable habits that support the County's Climate Action Plan and contribute to a cleaner, healthier future for our community! Continue Reading Article

01/21/26

Species Spotlight: Golden Eagle The Golden Eagle is a protected species under the County's Multiple Species Conservation Program and is recognized as a key indicator species for ecosystem health across the regional landscape. Continue Reading Article

12/11/25

Pathways to Renewable Energy The San Diego Solar Equity Program - County Pilot and San Diego Community Power's Solar Battery Savings Program both provide affordable pathways to lower energy bills for qualifying households. Continue Reading Article

12/11/25

Greening the Holidays: Composting Your Festive Waste This holiday season, turn your food scraps into nutrient-rich compost, transforming simple materials from your festive waste into composting that benefits both your home and the planet. Continue Reading Article

11/19/25

Curbing Vehicle Miles Traveled to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions The County is kicking off a project to understand mobility barriers and strategize how to improve travel options in the unincorporated area to ultimately reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Continue Reading Article

11/19/25

Celebrate a Sustainable Holiday Season Get ready for the holidays and create eco-friendly traditions that make a lasting impact with simple, sustainable tips to reduce waste, give meaningful gifts, and enjoy the outdoors. Continue Reading Article

10/15/25

Species Spotlight: The Engelmann Oak The County is working to protect the Engelmann Oak, a local treasure, through habitat restoration efforts and tree-planting opportunities. Continue Reading Article

10/15/25

Tree Giveaways Advance Climate Action Goals As part of the Equity-Driven Tree Planting Program, the County recently distributed over 500 free trees to residents in the unincorporated community. Continue Reading Article

10/15/25

Sustainable Halloween Costumes: Haunting Impact Create a sustainable costume for Halloween by following some simple tips that reduce waste, while potentially saving you time and money. Continue Reading Article

09/19/25

Be the Change and Pick Up Waste: National Clean Up Day is on September 20th! National Clean Up Day, held on September 20th, brings together millions of volunteers to remove litter, protect natural spaces, and promote healthier communities. Continue Reading Article

08/19/25

County Releases the Climate Action Progress Annual Report for 2024 The County’s Climate Action Progress Annual Report showcases how the County reduced greenhouse gas emissions in 2024, promoting a cleaner, more sustainable future. Continue Reading Article

08/19/25

EV Roadmap: Fourth Annual Update on Implementation Efforts The County’s fourth annual Electric Vehicle Roadmap update highlights 2024 progress in expanding charging infrastructure, growing the County’s EV fleet, and advancing zero-emission vehicle goals. Continue Reading Article

08/19/25

County Honored with Multiple 2025 Awards for Leadership in Sustainability and Resilience The County has been honored with multiple awards that recognize innovative projects and initiatives in sustainability, climate action, and public works. Continue Reading Article

08/19/25

Advancing Flood Resilience in San Diego County Through Nature-Based Solutions The County is exploring nature-based solutions, like green infrastructure, to help reduce flooding and boost climate resilience in the unincorporated area, especially underserved communities. Continue Reading Article

07/10/25

Get to Know Your Sustainability Planning Division Meet our Sustainability Planning Division’s Conservation and Sustainable Groundwater Management Teams working hard to implement sustainable County projects. Continue Reading Article

07/10/25

Twenty-Seven Years of Preserving Species and Habitats in South County! The County has published the 2024 Multiple Species Conservation Program Annual Report on the South County Subarea Plan, highlighting efforts to protect sensitive species and manage preserve lands. Continue Reading Article

06/12/25

Cultivating Solutions Forum Recap Learn how local leaders and small-scale farm advocates came together for the Cultivating Solutions Forum to shape the future of our region's agriculture. Continue Reading Article

06/12/25

Get to Know Your Sustainability Planning Division Meet the Planning & Development Services Sustainability Team working hard to implement the 2024 Climate Action Plan. Continue Reading Article

06/12/25

Save Water and Energy This Summer! As we enter into hotter months, discover some practical tips to conserve energy and water at home, from efficient appliance use to simple behavior changes. Continue Reading Article

05/12/25

Experience of College Corps Fellows at the County Discover how two College Corps Fellows developed new skills, engaged with the community, and contributed to two different teams within the County. Continue Reading Article

05/12/25

County Hosts Conservation and Land Management Assistance Workshop with Regional Partners The County hosted the 4th Annual Voluntary Conservation and Land Management Assistance Workshop for conservation efforts and sustainable land management practices. Continue Reading Article

05/12/25

Climate Action Plan Employee Participates in San Diego Regional Energy Academy One of our staff members participated in the second cohort of the San Diego Regional Energy Academy to better understand San Diego’s energy and power systems. Continue Reading Article

05/12/25

Takeaways from the 8th Annual State of Biodiversity Symposium Our conservation team participated in the 8th Annual State of Biodiversity Symposium, hosted by San Diego Natural History Museum, to explore the importance of biodiversity within the region. Continue Reading Article

04/16/25

Earth Day: County Celebration Celebrate Earth Day with the County through interactive booths, community events, and hands-on activities that highlight our commitment to building a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all! Continue Reading Article

04/16/25

2024 Climate Action Plan Honored with Statewide Award for Outstanding Climate Change Document The County's 2024 Climate Action Plan was recently recognized with the Outstanding Climate Change Document Award for its bold, community-driven approach to tackling climate change. Continue Reading Article

04/16/25

County Grows its EV Fleet for a Greener Future The County has added its 250th electric vehicle to our fleet, reaching a major EV milestone from the County’s EV Roadmap ahead of schedule! Continue Reading Article

03/20/25

San Diego Regional Energy Network to Bring Energy Efficiency Programs to our Region The San Diego Regional Energy Network (SDREN), authorized by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) in August 2024, is set to bring big changes to energy efficiency, equity, and sustainability across the entire San Diego region. Everyone, from businesses to local communities, can be part of the clean energy transition! Continue Reading Article

02/21/25

Species Spotlight: Western Burrowing Owl Each month, our Conservation Team shares a Species Spotlight that highlights a native plant or animal that calls the San Diego County region home. Today, discover how the County is working to protect the western burrowing owl, a unique ground dwelling species, through conservation efforts and habitat protection. Continue Reading Article

01/24/25

New Year, New Sustainable You! The start of a new year is the perfect opportunity to reflect on the habits and daily choices that shape the quality of our future. By implementing good habits in our lifestyle, we can enhance sustainability for years to come! Continue Reading Article

01/24/25

Update on the County's Food Justice Community Action Plan The Food Justice Community Action Plan (FJCAP) comes in is an unfolding process to translate community ideas into a next steps-guide to bolster momentum for collaborative change to improve food access and reduce food insecurity in the region. Find out more about the plan and the next steps. Continue Reading Article

12/18/24

Conservation Team Participates in the Multiple Species Conservation Program Annual Workshop On November 22, 2024, the Multiple Species Conservation Program (MSCP) Annual Workshop was hosted by the County’s Department of Parks and Recreation at the Lakeside Community Center at Lakeside County Park. This event brought together local, state, and federal partners to share achievements from the previous year in habitat protection, restoration, management, and monitoring efforts across San Diego. Continue Reading Article

12/18/24

Celebrating a Sustainable Holiday Season: A Guide to an Eco-Friendly Celebration This guide provides tips and resources to help you embrace sustainable practices and enjoy an eco-friendly holiday season. Continue Reading Article

11/22/24

Takeaways from the Fourth Annual Gathering for San Diego County Food Vision 2030 On October 17, 2024, the San Diego Food System Alliance hosted its Fourth Annual Gathering at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido. The event brought together various food system stakeholders to explore cooperative strategies for building a more resilient and equitable food system in San Diego County. Continue Reading Article

11/22/24

Testimonial: My year working with the County’s Office of Sustainability and Environmental Justice I joined the County’s Office of Sustainability and Environmental Justice (OSEJ) as a Management Fellow in October 2023 and it has been a year full of change, learning, and connections! Continue Reading Article

11/22/24

Green Friday: Sustainable Alternative to Black Friday Starting on November 29th, Green Friday encourages consumers to practice mindful shopping by supporting sustainable and ethical brands or choosing not to buy anything at all! Continue Reading Article

11/22/24

Winter Gardening in San Diego: Tips for Every Gardener In San Diego County, as temperatures cool and the rainy season approaches, it’s the ideal time for planting many types of plants, including cool-season vegetables, bare-root fruit, California natives, and trees. Continue Reading Article

10/18/24

County Board of Supervisors Adopts the 2024 Climate Action Plan Last month, the Board of Supervisors adopted the 2024 Climate Action Plan, a blueprint for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the unincorporated area and at County facilities to reach net zero emissions by 2045. Continue Reading Article

09/09/24

County Releases the 2023 Climate Action Progress Annual Report The 2023 Climate Action Progress Annual Report shows the County has continued to make climate action progress and provide co-benefits such as clean air and water, green jobs, and improved public health. Continue Reading Article

08/22/24

County Planning Commission Votes to Recommend Adoption of the CAP Update Last month, the County's Planning Commission voted to recommend the Board of Supervisors adopt the CAP Update. Continue Reading Article

08/22/24

EV Roadmap: 4th Annual Update on Implementation Efforts The County's EV Roadmap accelerates transportation electrification across the region with policy changes, EV infrastructure improvements, public outreach, and regional collaboration. See highlights of the County’s year four progress to electrify the roadway network. Continue Reading Article

08/22/24

Supporting Farmers with Market Research: SALC 2.0 Open House As part of the SALC 2.0 project, the County of San Diego's Planning & Development Services and San Diego County LAFCO hosted an in-person workshop on July 24th, 2024. The workshop aimed to inform local producers of the market analysis results and to collect input from producers on their operating cost centers. Continue Reading Article

08/22/24

Species Spotlight: California Wild Rose Each month, our Conservation Team shares a Species Spotlight that highlights a native plant or animal that calls the San Diego County region home. Today, we are excited to share a more detailed look at a plant that's a San Diego native landscape favorite, California wild rose (Rosa californica). Continue Reading Article

06/11/24

Twenty-six years of Preserving Species and Habitats in South County! One of the tools the County uses to preserve the region’s unique, native habitats and wildlife biodiversity for future generations is the Multiple Species Conservation Program (MSCP). Continue Reading Article

05/17/24

Our Experiences as College Corps Sustainability Fellows at the County of San Diego For the past year, two University of San Diego students worked with us to learn about sustainability and climate action planning. Continue Reading Article

05/17/24

Sustainability Planning Division’s Magen Shaw Receives Award A Sustainability Planning Division team member recently received an award at the conference of the Western Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture. Continue Reading Article

04/10/24

Celebrate Earth Month Across San Diego County April is Earth Month! Every year during the month of April, people all around the world highlight the importance of engaging in sustainability practices, conservation, and appreciation for our beautiful planet. Earth Month stems from Earth Day, which began in 1970 as a response to the increasing amount of air and water pollution produced in the U.S. By 1990, Earth Day expanded globally, turning the one-day celebration into a whole month! Continue Reading Article

04/10/24

County Hosts Conservation and Land Management Assistance Workshop with Regional Partners On March 14, 2024, the County of San Diego hosted the 3rd annual Voluntary Conservation and Land Management Assistance Workshop. This event was co-sponsored by the Resource Conservation District of Greater San Diego County, United States Fish and Wildlife Services’ Partners for Fish and Wildlife, and University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Continue Reading Article

03/11/24

Monthly Demonstration Garden Talks on Gardening and Sustainability Please join us at the County Operations Center to learn more about sustainable gardening and landscaping! Led by the Master Gardeners of San Diego, talks are held monthly at the garden on a variety of topics. Continue Reading Article

02/13/24

Species Spotlight: The Nuttall's Lotus Each month, our Conservation Team shares on social media (X, Facebook, and Instagram) a Species Spotlight that highlights a native plant or animal that calls the San Diego County region home. Today, we are excited to share a more detailed look into a plant that lives along our region’s coast – the Nuttall’s Lotus (Acmispon prostratus). Continue Reading Article

02/13/24

County Awarded $1.4 Million Grant to Protect Agricultural Land On December 18, 2023, the California Strategic Growth Council awarded the County of San Diego a $1.4 million grant under the Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program (SALC). The grant will be used to fund an agricultural conservation easement on a 450-acre avocado and citrus orchard in Pauma Valley through the County’s Purchase of Agricultural Conservation Easement (PACE) Program. Continue Reading Article

02/13/24

Building Energy Resiliency Through Climate Action Planning Throughout California, increases in heat waves, drought, wildfires, and more intense precipitation patterns can greatly impact the reliability and resiliency of existing power grids. The County is committed to being a regional leader in addressing climate change, promoting sustainability, and furthering goals to reach net zero emissions by 2045. Continue Reading Article

01/23/24

Preparing for Emergency Response in San Diego County Natural disasters such as wild fire, drought, and extreme heat events can create emergency situations for communities around the region. Continue Reading Article

01/23/24

What’s Next for the Draft Climate Action Plan? Thank you to everyone who submitted comments on the Draft Climate Action Plan and environmental documents during the public review period. Continue Reading Article