As we head into summer, many of us are feeling overwhelmed by the constant stream of troubling news from Washington. From attacks on clean energy programs to efforts to roll back environmental protections and climate policies, it can be easy to feel discouraged about the pace of progress.
But climate action has never depended solely on what happens at the federal level.
Here in Contra Costa County and throughout California, local communities continue to organize, advocate, and win. This month alone, we’ve seen important victories protecting open space, growing opposition to risky carbon dioxide pipeline projects, and new opportunities to support climate legislation in Sacramento.
While we cannot control every decision made in Washington, we can continue to build momentum where we live. Local action remains one of the most powerful tools we have to protect our communities, strengthen climate resilience, and create lasting change.
This month’s newsletter highlights some recent victories, upcoming opportunities to get involved, and actions you can take to help build a healthier and more sustainable future. Thank you for everything you do to help make that possible.
California is considering several important climate bills this year, but they will only succeed if lawmakers hear from the public.
Join 350 Contra Costa Action for a virtual Community Climate Forum on June 17 to learn about key legislation moving through Sacramento and simple actions you can take to help these bills become law.
Topics include:
California’s climate leadership is on the line. Join us to learn what’s at stake and how you can make a difference.
We are excited to share some encouraging news from right here in the Bay Area. In May, the Richmond City Council became the first city in California to formally oppose carbon dioxide pipelines and underground carbon storage projects associated with the proposed Montezuma Carbon Sequestration Hub.
The resolution follows years of organizing, education, and advocacy by community groups, environmental organizations, and residents concerned about the risks these projects could pose to communities, wetlands, and local ecosystems. While there is still more work ahead, Richmond’s action demonstrates the growing momentum for climate solutions that prioritize reducing pollution at its source while protecting public health and the environment.
350 Contra Costa Action has been proud to work alongside coalition partners to raise awareness about the proposed Montezuma project and advocate for community-centered climate solutions.
The recent local elections delivered an important win for Contra Costa County’s environment and quality of life. Voters overwhelmingly approved Measure A, renewing protections for the county’s Urban Limit Line (ULL), a critical tool for preventing sprawl, protecting open space, preserving agricultural lands, and supporting more sustainable growth.
The Urban Limit Line has helped shape Contra Costa County for decades, safeguarding hillsides, habitat, and farmland from unchecked development while encouraging investment in existing communities. By renewing these protections, voters sent a clear message that preserving the county’s natural landscapes remains a priority.
We were also pleased to see several candidates endorsed by 350 Contra Costa and our partner organizations perform strongly in their races, reflecting growing support for climate action and environmental stewardship at the local level.
Thank you to everyone who volunteered, educated voters, and helped make these victories possible.
Help Marathon Renewables biodiesel refinery workers ensure their safety and the safety of the surrounding community.
The United Steelworkers International Union Local 5 has been on strike for over six weeks, picketing the refinery 24/7 over on-the-job safety risks. A 2023 fire at the plant that resulted in burns over 90% of a worker’s body was caused by safety failures, according to a federal government investigation.
Since then, Marathon has laid off 700 workers, severely understaffing the refinery. The union reports that employees already working 12-hour shifts are expected to work an additional four hours on top of their long day and existing commute. The company walked away from labor negotiations on April 27, 2026.
The union believes that the use of replacement workers increases the risk of fires and emissions releases that could affect both workers and the surrounding community.
USW Local 5 asks that you call Cal/OSHA at (925) 602-2665 to request a safety inspection of Marathon’s Concord refinery.
Suggested script:
“As a resident of Contra Costa County, I am concerned that the Marathon Renewables refinery is failing to ensure the safety of workers and our community. The use of unskilled workers during the current labor strike could result in refinery fires and dangerous emissions releases. Please send out safety inspectors as soon as possible to assess and help remedy this situation.”
Should you see an emissions plume from the refinery, call 1-800-334-ODOR (1-800-334-6367) or file a report online through the Bay Area Air District Air Pollution Complaint Program.
Our friends at Veterans For Peace are encouraging community members to submit public comments opposing plans to expand plutonium production. Plutonium is used in nuclear weapons and could increase proliferation; the production process itself endangers the environment. Public input is being accepted through July 16, and every comment helps demonstrate public concern about the environmental, health, and global security risks associated with nuclear weapons development.
Learn more and submit a public comment before July 16.
Veterans For Peace also recommends the documentary Earth’s Greatest Enemy, which explores the environmental impacts of military activities around the world and highlights the often-overlooked connections between militarism, climate change, and environmental degradation.
Thank you,
350 Contra Costa Action
©350 Contra Costa Action
This message has not been expressly authorized, requested, or approved by any federal, state, or local candidate, candidate’s committee or their agents, or by any ballot issue committee.
Created with NationBuilder, software for leaders.
