We have entered a new era in federal climate policy, one that can be at once frustrating and demotivating for sustainability professionals in the U.S. and around the world. There is a light, however, in the way states and cities across the U.S. are stepping up so stand firm on climate action.
California: Leading the Charge
If climate policy development is a game of tug-of-war between federal and state, California should probably be named the climate action heavyweight champion. The Golden State isn’t just playing defense; it’s been setting the standard for climate leadership for years. California has a ripe history of raising the country’s bar for climate action, even as it pushes bold and transformative legislation.
California has cemented its role as a climate leader through transformative legislation and initiatives since the 1960s. Key milestones include the 2006 Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32), which committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 and introduced a model cap-and-trade program; the 2018 SB100 law, mandating 100% clean electricity by 2045; and Governor Gavin Newsom’s push for zero-emission vehicles by 2035 through the Advanced Clean Cars Program. Investments in wildfire mitigation, drought preparedness, and climate-resilient infrastructure, along with Community Choice Aggregation programs like Marin Clean Energy, empower communities to embrace renewable energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
In recent years, Governor Gavin Newsom has enacted new climate compliance requirements for companies doing business in California that are rivaled only by the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). For more information on California’s climate leadership in 2025, check out Veerless’ December 2024 report A Climate of Opportunity: ESG in a Second Trump Administration. In addition, we’ve released an issue of “The Sheet” specifically on California’s new climate regulations.
Cities Making a Difference
While California shines at the state level, cities across the U.S. are proving that local action can deliver big results. These urban leaders show that you don’t need state-sized resources to make a difference and don’t have to reflect the political swings of presidential leadership.
- Portland, Oregon: A pioneer in climate action since 1993, Portland’s Climate Action Plan emphasizes urban density, green infrastructure, and renewable energy. Its 2020 Climate Emergency Declaration sets the city on a path to carbon neutrality by 2050 and a 50% reduction by 2030.
- Austin, Texas: Austin Energy is spearheading the city’s commitment to 100% carbon-free electricity by 2035. With robust EV infrastructure and incentives for sustainable transitions, Austin is proving that Texas can be both big and bold in tackling climate challenges.
- New York City, New York: NYC’s Green New Deal aims to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030. With policies like Local Law 97 targeting building emissions, the city is transforming its skyline into a symbol of sustainability.
- Denver, Colorado: Denver’s Climate Action Plan focuses on 100% renewable electricity by 2030, electrifying public transit, and expanding urban green spaces to foster resilience in a rapidly changing climate.
Now let’s dive into some not-so-obvious leaders. Despite being from largely red voting states, these cities have strong climate initiatives that continue to hold the line for sustainability as a priority at a local level.
- Bowling Green, Kentucky: Bowling Green, one of Kentucky’s largest metro areas, applied for and received nearly $1 million from the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Program. The city plans to use this funding to:
- Establish a climate monitoring site for greenhouse gas emissions
- Create a part-time staff position dedicated to climate initiatives
- Support climate-related initiatives in three partner counties
- Target emissions from transportation, electricity production and distribution, and land use sectors
- Louisville and Lexington, Kentucky: After the state government declined to apply for federal climate funding, Louisville and Lexington took the initiative to create their own climate goals. These cities are now working independently to develop climate action plans and compete for additional funding to execute these plans.
- Rapid City, South Dakota: Rapid City has a strong working Sustainability Committee that pursues education, stewardship, and policy leadership around sustainability. They consult with and assist City departments, while also serving as a resource to the Rapid City Common Council. The Committee is currently supporting staff in the planning and implementation of the EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant.
- Iowa City, Iowa: Following Iowa’s refusal of federal climate funding, Iowa City became eligible to apply for and potentially receive climate action planning funds. They have capitalized on these resources by addressing buildings and energy, transportation, sustainable lifestyle, waste with a focus on adaptation and resilience as key areas for climate action. Iowa City has been recognized by the Global Covenant of Mayors for outstanding commitment to climate action in the areas of mitigation, adaptation, and energy through documented actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to climate change risks, and promote access to green and affordable energy.
These examples highlight how cities in states with mostly conservative policies are finding ways to advance climate action, often working around state-level resistance or inaction. By leveraging federal funding opportunities and developing local initiatives, these cities are demonstrating leadership in addressing climate change at the municipal level.
How Can You Join the Climate Movement?
Feeling inspired? Whether it’s your campus, your city, or your neighborhood, there are ways to get involved:
- University Level: Second Nature mobilizes higher education institutions to commit to bold climate goals, fostering innovation and solutions that ripple out into the broader community.
- City Level: ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability connects local leaders with resources and expertise to build sustainable, low-emission communities.
- Community Level: Run On Climate focuses on supporting local leaders and candidates who champion climate justice policies, creating change from the ground up.
Final Thoughts: Local Action, Global Impact
California and its local level allies are leading the way, but the fight against climate change needs everyone on board. Whether it’s advocating for clean energy, pushing for sustainable transportation options locally, or simply supporting local climate conscious businesses, every action counts. Together, we can transform climate challenges into opportunities for a brighter, greener future.