As we wrap up 2021, a year that consisted of devastating fires, severe flooding and storms, record high temperatures and climate injustices in real time, we have an opportunity to set our goals and intentions for the year ahead.  Although around this time of year, with the inspiration that a new year brings, the weight of adding more goals to the agenda can feel burdensome, especially for climate justice advocates who can experience burn out.  Hence, it is critical to not just identify goals for the year ahead, but also, to take inventory of what’s working and what’s not, in order to create space for the noes along with the yeses.

It is evident that while the climate crisis is truly unfolding before our eyes, we have collectively not met the moment as a society.  The celebrated climate targets set forth by jurisdictions oftentimes are unreachable due to lack of resources or political will, and roadmaps that aim to create the just and livable future we desire tend to fall short on delivering the promises made.  As we enter a new year, we hope this is something that can be left behind in 2021.  We also look forward to greenwashing being a thing of the past, as well as policy changes that do not reflect the needs of the planet and our communities, like the recently released proposed decision regarding California’s future rooftop solar policy, net energy metering 3.0.

However, holding policy makers accountable is something we know we will be bringing into the new year.  We have seen the progress that is feasible as a result of collective efforts, and as the urgency to fight the climate crisis increases, so must our willingness to shine light on what’s working and what’s not at a local level.  Keeping in mind the work that lies ahead, let’s not forget that just 90 corporations are responsible for almost two thirds of historical greenhouse gas emissions - included in the list of companies is, of course, Big Oil. 

We’re excited to announce that in early 2022, we will be strengthening collective accountability through two new initiatives!  In the coming weeks we will be releasing the San Diego Climate Report Card, which we created in partnership with the Climate Defenders Action Fund and League of Conservation Voters San Diego, in order to hold elected officials accountable for climate action within the City of San Diego and County of San Diego.  Additionally, the San Diego Climate Hub will be launching a new initiative called the Fossil Fuel Free Pledge, which will highlight nonprofit organizations and elected officials that pledge to not accept fossil fuel donations.  Time and time again, we have seen oil and gas corporations use organizations as pawns to fight climate action and engage in greenwashing.  Keep an eye out for how your favorite nonprofit organizations and elected officials can take the pledge.

Here are some impactful goals and ideas to consider when planting intentions for the new year:

• Reduce waste, stress and carbon emissions simultaneously by starting your own vegetable garden!  If planting space is limited, check out this blog post on DIY vertical gardens that include the use of upcycled plastic bottles
• Join a local climate justice organization or coalition aiming to hold elected officials accountable to the climate targets they commit to, and set an intention of making public comments each month - below are some national nonprofit organizations to check out that may have a local chapter near you:

• 350.org
• Sunrise Movement
• Climate Reality Project
• Indivisible

• Educate yourself on the intersection of racism and the climate crisis - a good place to start is the widely regarded book Revolutionary Power by Shalanda Baker (available as an audiobook and can be purchased used or rented from the library) 
• Aim for a low-waste, organic, plant-based lifestyle by opting for bulk and plastic-free foods, such as lentils, quinoa, beans and rice, using a repurposed container or jar and vegetables using reusable produce bags like these from EcoRoots
• Survey your consumption patterns, and see where you may be able to choose second hand for household items, clothes and other items - we recommend checking out the Buy Nothing Project
• Prioritize more self-care to ensure your own personal sustainability is on the agenda (which will also allow you to help the planet and others, long-term)
• Give the gift of experiences in place of items, which create long-lasting memories along with the opportunity to support unique services like plant-based cooking classes
• Survey your single-use items and household habits to create a zero-waste lifestyle wherever possible - feel free to check out this guide by Going Zero Waste

Thank you for supporting our work, whether you are part of a partner organization, coalition or an individual activist in our hometown of San Diego or across the globe.  We wish you a bright 2022 and look forward to working with you in the new year to create a more just and livable future for all.