California is leading the climate change fight

We're helping California take bold action that reduces energy use and global warming pollution.

Implementing landmark global warming law

California's landmark global warming law — the world's first mandatory limit on greenhouse gas pollution — is crucial to fighting climate change.

After beating back back a polluter attack on AB 32 in 2010 we're continuing to ensure California meets its emissions goals, specifically through a well-designed cap and trade program.

Showcasing the clean energy economy

We know reducing emissions creates jobs and grows the economy. Here's how we're making the case for green jobs in California:

• Created a series of interactive maps in partnership with the governor's office.
• Published a green jobs guidebook for job seekers of all skill sets.
• Built an online resource of green jobs and training centers.

Innovative climate and energy solutions

The success of AB32 depends on finding and adopting innovative solutions with a range of partners.

On the international front, we helped California arrange an agreement with the Brazilian state of Acre and the Mexican state of Chiapas that could bring them into the Golden State's new cap-and-trade carbon market as early as 2012. The agreements helps Brazil and Mexico preserve rainforests and California reach its emission reduction targets.

Locally, we launched the Climate for Community project with SF Power to show how residents and small businesses can save on utilitiy bills and make money in the state's carbon market. The project brings needed funds into under-invested communities and helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Our track record in California

EDF has helped win approval for breakthrough policies to combat climate change.

• Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006: we helped pass this bold law to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and defended it from polluters in 2010.
• Low Carbon Fuel Standard: the world's first standard for dramatically reducing the environmental impact of transportation fuels.
• California's Clean Cars Program: adopted by 13 other states, permission to enforce standards was granted by the Environmental Protection Agency in June 2009.
• Climate Action Reserve's Forest Project Protocol: allows forest projects to earn carbon credits and play a greater role in mitigating climate change.
• Pay-as-You-Drive: insurance standards that reward motorists who drive less, resulting in lower insurance costs, less air pollution and a reduced dependence on foreign oil.