Orange County’s Shocking Climate Neglect: How America’s Sixth Largest County is Dangerously Behind in Climate Action

Orange County’s Climate Action Dilemma

In a startling revelation, only eight of Orange County’s 34 cities have made strides in developing climate action plans as highlighted by the non-profit Climate Action Campaign. Shockingly, just six of these cities have approved plans addressing climate change causes and impacts, underscoring a significant lag compared to other Southern California counties.

Despite facing severe risks such as landslides, sea level rise, fires, heat, and floods, Orange County remains behind in climate planning. According to California Polytechnic State University’s Climate Action Plan Database, the county is significantly trailing neighboring regions, raising concerns about its preparedness for worsening climate disasters.

Orange County, the sixth most populous county in the U.S., is notably one of the largest counties without a comprehensive climate action plan. However, grassroots efforts by local residents are slowly changing this scenario, bringing a glimmer of hope for future progress.

At a recent press conference in Santa Ana, Supervisor Katrina Foley stressed the urgent need for action. “It is well beyond time to act,” she declared, reflecting on her long-standing efforts since the early 2000s. Foley emphasized the importance of the ongoing struggle and the forward momentum being achieved.

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The Essentials of a Climate Action Plan

Climate Action Plans (CAPs) serve as crucial blueprints for governments to reduce pollution and adapt to climate change. These plans are particularly vital for addressing local-specific pollution sources and devising appropriate adaptation strategies. Legally binding CAPs ensure long-term adherence and effectiveness.

Local CAPs are tailored to the unique needs of cities and counties, addressing specific pollution sources and climate impacts. This local focus is essential as state and national plans can be too broad for practical implementation. The climate crisis, although global, must be addressed locally to be effective.

Effective CAPs target two main areas: reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate impacts. Key components include:

• A detailed inventory of greenhouse gas emissions
• Plans to reduce pollution across various sectors
• Strategies for infrastructure fortification and resource sustainability

Local governments with robust CAPs can access certain types of state and federal funding more easily. Orange County, receiving some of the least state funding per capita, stands to benefit significantly from an approved climate action plan.

Progress and Setbacks in Orange County

Recent reports highlight several cities in Orange County making progress with their climate action plans. Notably, Laguna Beach, Santa Ana, Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Tustin, San Clemente, and Irvine are actively developing or implementing their plans. Dedicated staff positions in cities like Santa Ana and Costa Mesa are aiding these efforts.

Orange County has also completed a draft CAP, which Supervisor Foley says will enable the county to apply for funding from the Biden Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act. The draft includes comprehensive greenhouse gas inventories for each city, saving time and resources for local governments.

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Conversely, Huntington Beach has seen setbacks. Despite approving a climate action plan in 2017, the city council recently dissolved its Environment and Sustainability Committee and ceased work on its Sustainability Master Plan. These actions represent a significant step backward in the city’s climate efforts.

Additionally, Huntington Beach exited the Orange County Power Authority, which provides renewable energy sources like wind and solar to participating cities. This move further hampers the city’s progress in adopting sustainable practices and transitioning to cleaner energy.

The Importance of Local Climate Action

Local climate action plans are critical for creating a sustainable and resilient future. They address unique regional challenges, allowing cities and counties to tailor their approaches to their specific needs. This customization is essential for effective climate adaptation and mitigation.

CAPs focus on both mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate impacts. By providing a roadmap for reducing pollution and enhancing infrastructure resilience, these plans play a pivotal role in local climate strategies.

For example, the city of San Diego’s CAP target for emission reductions has been adopted by both California and the United States, demonstrating the potential for local plans to influence broader policies. This scalability is a key benefit of robust and well-developed CAPs.

Currently, none of Orange County’s jurisdictions have adopted plans meeting the state’s targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. With global scientists advocating for a 45% reduction by 2030, urgent action is needed to avoid the worst effects of climate change.

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