As we reach the end of the year, many of our communities are navigating uncertainty and real challenges. Rising costs, extreme weather, and uncertainty have taken a toll on us all. It’s also been hard to watch climate science come under renewed attack and see progress made under the Inflation Reduction Act increasingly targeted.
Even so, this work continues, grounded in science, lived experience, and real results. We see it in neighbors organizing for cleaner air, in families choosing healthier energy options, and in local leaders and advocates who keep showing up for climate solutions that protect people and communities.
As we reflect on the year, we do so with honesty about the challenges ahead, deep gratitude for everyone carrying this work forward, and determination to keep building a healthier, more sustainable future together.
None of this happens without volunteers, advocates, and community members who give their time and energy to make change possible. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who shows up, consistently and with heart, for our climate and our communities. One of those people is Lou Flores.
Retirement didn’t slow Lou down, it gave him a new direction. A former Special Education teacher and longtime nonprofit supporter, Lou turned his “free time” into full-time climate action after joining 350 Contra Costa Climate Action.
Drawn by the desire to do something, Lou jumped in, tabling, learning, and quickly taking on leadership roles across multiple teams. Over the past two years, he’s become a trusted connector, working with local policy groups and environmental organizations across Contra Costa County. Lou often reminds us that real change starts by simply showing up. Read Lou’s full volunteer story here.
California’s Climate Superfund bills have stalled in the legislature, but the movement behind them is far from over.
The Climate Superfund would require the largest fossil fuel polluters to help pay for the real costs of climate damage: wildfires, flooding, extreme heat, rising insurance premiums, and public-health impacts. Today, those costs are largely shouldered by taxpayers and communities, even as polluters continue to post record profits.
Despite fierce industry opposition, the bills generated unprecedented grassroots momentum and strong public support. Californians want solutions that address both the climate crisis and the cost-of-living crisis, and holding polluters accountable remains a powerful way to do both.
While this year’s bills may be stalled, the coalition behind the Climate Superfund is clear: the work continues. Climate action is an economic imperative, and we’ll stay engaged and ready as this effort moves forward. Read the full press release here.
One of 350 CCA’s key focus areas this year has been building electrification, especially through our work on the East Contra Costa Healthy Homes project. This work is about practical, people-centered solutions, reducing pollution in homes, lowering energy bills, and improving health, particularly in communities most impacted by fossil fuels.
Encouragingly, our local efforts are part of a much bigger shift. The Building Decarbonization Coalition’s 2025 Wrapped: Building Decarb Edition highlights growing momentum for electrification across California and beyond. Cities and states are updating building codes, supporting all-electric new construction, and making it easier for homeowners to switch to efficient electric systems like heat pumps when equipment needs replacing.
What’s especially promising is the role of local and city-level action, where smart policies, incentives, and community partnerships are turning electrification into a practical, affordable option for everyday households. That’s exactly the approach behind East Contra Costa Healthy Homes.
The takeaway is clear: building electrification is no longer a niche idea. It’s a proven pathway to healthier homes, lower bills, and more resilient communities, and Contra Costa County is part of that momentum.
Read the Building Decarbonization Coalition’s 2025 Wrapped blog here.
As we head into the new year, we’re grateful for everyone who shows up for our communities and our climate. Progress is built by people, neighbors, volunteers, and local leaders working together. Thank you for being part of the solution. We look forward to continuing to partner with you in the year ahead.
Thank you—
350 Contra Costa Action
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