California Air Resources Board

Climate is not just a state issue – everyone has a part to play in reducing California’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Significant GHG emission reductions can be achieved through effective local government planning, small business action, and individual household choices.

The Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32) outlines a comprehensive, multi-year program to reduce California's GHG emissions. AB 32 required CARB to identify a list of early action items, including a comprehensive framework of regulatory and non-regulatory elements that will result in significant and effective GHG emission reductions. “Guidance and protocols for businesses and governments to facilitate GHG emission reductions” were approved as early action items by the Board at its June 2007 hearing.

In 2016, the California Legislature passed SB 32, requiring CARB to ensure that statewide GHG emissions are reduced to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. Staff continue to update the tools for local governments, small businesses, schools, and individuals in order to support California’s AB 32 and SB 32 emission targets, as well as new targets such as the statewide goal of reducing emissions 80% below 1990 levels by 2050.

Additionally, Executive Order B-55-18 calls for carbon neutrality by 2045, consistent with the latest IPCC report. This executive order introduces the concept of balancing carbon emissions and carbon sequestration within the state.

Local Governments

Cities and counties have unique influence and exclusive authority over significant GHG emission sources. Local governments can help California meet its AB 32, SB 32, and carbon neutrality targets through climate action planning. A Local Government Toolkit was designed to provide guidance and resources to help cities and counties reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save money.

A variety of tools are available to assist with climate action planning including information on:

• How to calculate and inventory current GHG emissions 
• A recommended target to reduce GHG emissions
• Cost-saving strategies to reduce GHG emissions
• Financial resources to get started 
• Case studies to learn what other cities have been able to accomplish
• An interactive Climate Action Portal Map with climate action plans and strategies from jurisdictions around the state

Small Businesses

Given the importance of small businesses to California’s economy, a Small Business Toolkit was designed to help business simultaneously reduce GHG emissions as well as their bottom line. The Toolkit provides guidance and resources that promote cost-effective, voluntary GHG emission reductions. Toolkit components include specific climate-friendly actions to save money; information about where to find money to get started; California success stories; a business specific carbon footprint calculator; and a small business award program. Staff continue to incorporate stakeholder suggestions and research results to increase the Toolkit’s effectiveness.

A variety of tools are available to assist with small business climate action including information on:

• How to calculate and inventory current GHG emissions 
• Cost-saving strategies to reduce GHG emissions
• Financial resources to get started 
• Case studies to learn what other small businesses have been able to accomplish

Households and Individuals

Each household and individual in California has the power to protect the climate and keep California cool. Individual and household actions may not have the same scope and impact as local government policies, but they represent an important avenue for Californians to signal support for climate action, make contributions to mitigate climate change, and can help save money. In fact, staff have identified five simple actions that may be able to help the average California household GHG footprint by 50% or more!

A variety of tools are available to assist with individuals taking climate action including information on:

• An easy-to-use carbon footprint calculator 
• Cost-saving strategies to reduce GHG emissions
• Financial resources to get started

Schools

California schools have a unique role to play in both taking climate action to address GHG emissions, but also to teach climate change and encourage students to take individual actions. Staff have identified resources for schools to take action, teach action, and support student projects.

A variety of tools are available to assist with climate action at schools including information on:

• How to calculate and inventory current GHG emissions 
• Actions tailored for administrators, teachers, and students
• Financial resources to get started 
• Case studies to learn what other schools have been able to accomplish