A Resilient Orange County: OC’s Climate Goals
From wildfires and heatwaves to drought and coastal flooding, Orange County faces a growing list of climate challenges.
The newly released Climate Action Plan lays out a clear path forward. These goals aren’t just about cutting emissions—they’re about investing in a healthier, more equitable, and more resilient future for every community in OC.
We’ve highlighted six of the most actionable and impactful goals from the plan—goals that you can help move forward, starting today.
1. Make all new buildings carbon neutral by 2030 🏠
Resilience theme: Emissions
Target: Ensure all new buildings are operationally carbon neutral by 2030, and all existing buildings by 2045.
Why it matters: Buildings are one of the largest sources of carbon emissions. By designing with efficiency and electrification in mind, we can future-proof homes and workplaces while reducing our climate impact.
How you can help:
Electrify your home appliances (think: induction stoves and heat pumps).
Upgrade insulation and windows to improve energy efficiency.
Ask your city about incentives for carbon-neutral retrofits.
2. Achieve zero waste in County buildings by 2030 ♻️
Resilience theme: Waste reduction
Target: Establish a Zero-Waste Policy in County buildings by 2030.
Why it matters: Waste in landfills produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Reducing, reusing, and composting helps shrink our environmental footprint and supports a circular economy.
How you can help:
Cut down on single-use plastics.
Compost food scraps at home or through a local program.
Support local businesses with low-waste practices.
3. Invest in climate solutions in vulnerable communities 🌆
Resilience theme: Equity
Target: Prioritize infrastructure, funding, and job training in low-income and climate-vulnerable communities
Why it matters: Not all communities are equally equipped to weather climate impacts. Investments in clean transportation, green spaces, and local jobs build resilience and equity.
How you can help:
Support local climate justice initiatives and mutual aid groups.
Advocate for climate investments in your neighborhood.
Join community planning meetings to voice support for equitable solutions.
4. Protect 42 miles of coastline and local habitats 🌊
Resilience theme: Biodiversity
Target: Restore habitats, protect the coast, and expand access to natural spaces.
Why it matters: Coastal ecosystems buffer storms, store carbon, and support wildlife. Protecting them helps safeguard OC’s unique environment and way of life.
How you can help:
Volunteer with local habitat restoration groups.
Avoid single-use plastics that can end up in the ocean.
Support conservation efforts and local environmental nonprofits.
5. Conserve water and expand access to local sources 💧
Resilience theme: Water conservation
Target: Implement countywide water conservation targets and expand alternative water sources.
Why it matters: OC relies heavily on imported water. As drought becomes more common, using less and sourcing locally builds long-term water security.
How you can help:
Fix leaks and install low-flow fixtures at home.
Replace grass lawns with drought-tolerant landscaping.
Use rain barrels to capture and reuse water.
6. Prepare for droughts, heatwaves, floods, and wildfires 🔥
Resilience theme: Climate adaptation
Target: Complete a countywide climate vulnerability assessment and coastal resiliency plan.
Why it matters: From extreme heat to sea level rise, climate impacts are already here. Planning ahead saves lives, reduces damages, and ensures we’re ready for what’s to come.
How you can help:
Make an emergency plan and kit for your household.
Stay informed during extreme weather events.
Get involved in local emergency preparedness programs.
By working together on these six goals, we can help Orange County thrive in a changing climate. Every action you take—whether it’s saving water, planting native species, or reducing waste—builds a stronger and more resilient community for everyone.
Let’s get started.