Sebastopol has set the ambitious and essential goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2030. To reach net zero emissions, we must reduce our use of fossil fuels to the point where our natural environment can absorb all the greenhouse gases we emit. Doing so will require swift action on the part of the City, residents, and groups. The Climate Action Framework will provide specific and actionable recommendations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, remove carbon from the atmosphere, and prepare for climate change impacts, such as increased flooding events and wildfires.

The Framework process began in Fall 2021 with the development of a community engagement strategy and a draft Framework outline. Community engagement for the Framework will begin in early 2022 with a virtual kickoff meeting and an online survey. Community input will inform the researching and drafting of the Framework, which will be completed in the summer of 2022.

There are many ways to get involved in the Framework process, including the following:

• Sign up for the City newsletter or follow the City’s Facebook account for project updates.
• Participate in an upcoming community event. Events will be announced here, in the City newsletter, and on the City’s Facebook account.
• Updates on the Framework will also be provided at Climate Action Committee meetings, which are held the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month at 3:30pm. 
• If your organization or group would like to host a presentation about the Framework, please email ClimateActionCommittee@cityofsebastopol.org.
• Share this information with your friends and neighbors! The more people that are involved, the better the Framework will be able to meet the Sebastopol community’s needs.

• Climate Science 101: Climate scientist Dr. Katharine Hayhoe explains the basics of climate change.
• NASA Climate Change: NASA’s climate site provides more detailed data documenting climate change.
• CoolClimate Calculator: Calculate your household’s carbon footprint and see which changes could have the greatest impact in reducing your emissions with this online tool from UC Berkeley.
• Regeneration.org: This website by author Paul Hawken describes solutions to the climate crisis, including actions you can take to contribute.
• Switch is On: Learn about the benefits of switching to electric appliances and find local rebates and incentives to help electrify your house.

If you have any questions, please contact ClimateActionCommittee@cityofsebastopol.org.