Today, the City of Irvine announced its selection for a 2023 Beacon Leadership & Innovation Award, presented by the Institute for Local Government. The accolade recognizes the city’s Cool Irvine program, a grassroots initiative that educates neighborhoods on environmental issues, empowering residents to take climate action and foster stronger community relationships, as per City of Irvine Public Information Office.
Beacon awards are granted to California local agencies that voluntarily reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save energy, and adopt policies promoting sustainability. Over just one year, the Cool Irvine initiative registered 210 households that successfully carried out 1,734 sustainability actions, pledging 2,457 more. Beyond these numbers, it is estimated that more than 727,000 pounds of carbon dioxide have been eliminated from the atmosphere through these actions. In addition, the Cool Irvine program has nurtured a sense of connection and camaraderie among neighbors, who have gone on to forge disaster plans for their blocks and develop friendships beyond the scope of the program, according to the City of Irvine Public Information Office.
Mayor Farrah N. Khan praised the program, stating, “Part of what makes Cool Irvine so special is that it is a grassroots effort paving the way for a cleaner, healthier, and more vibrant city. I am proud of what we have achieved together. This prestigious recognition belongs to everyone in the Cool Irvine program who has worked hard to further our commitment to a sustainable and carbon-neutral future.” As mentioned in the news release on the city website.
Alongside the Cool Irvine program, the city is crafting its inaugural Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP). This plan aims to establish ambitious, feasible emissions reduction targets for municipal operations and the wider community, thereby outlining a path to fulfilling climate goals, as per City of Irvine Public Information Office. Together, residents' and the city’s combined efforts speak to the power of collaboration in combating climate change, fostering resilience, and buoying communities in the face of environmental challenges.
For those who wish to be part of this transformative movement, visit the Cool Irvine website and learn more about the services and opportunities offered. They can also visit the City of Irvine’s Environmental Programs to discover more ways to contribute to the city's continued pursuit of sustainability and resilience.
