Walnut Creek, Martinez, and San Ramon are top 3 in new county Climate Action scorecard

An annual report that tracks Contra Costa County cities’ progress on policies to address the climate crisis has Walnut Creek, Martinez and San Ramon at the top of the list.

“Walnut Creek is working hard to implement our Sustainability Action Plan. We are partnering with MCE (Marin Clean Energy) to assess energy efficiency opportunities at our City facilities, we recently banned gas leaf blowers, and we are working to make our city greener,” said Mayor Cindy Darling.

The report challenges other local governments to discuss and identify creative ways to increase their standing on the list of cities leading the way to a sustainable future. “The 4CL scorecard holds up a mirror to local CCC jurisdictions to show how they are doing to address environmental and climate degradation in their communities. It is local action that will be the most successful in ensuring a livable planet for future generations,” said Fred Bialy of the Climate Reality Bay Area’s CCC Policy Action Squad.

The scorecard adds two news leadership measurables this year: Recognizing cities that have won awards in two programs: SolSmart and Beacon Awards. 

In addition, it identifies cities like Walnut Creek and San Ramon for increasing their number of electric vehicle charging stations.

“San Ramon has come a long way in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and that is something we can all be proud of,” said Sue Bock, San Ramon Valley Climate Action. 

“The City of San Ramon recently updated its Climate Action Plan (CAP), General Plan, and confirmed the formation of a permanent Sustainability Advisory Committee. We offer an exceptional quality of life underscored by a strong environmental base that is both inclusive and diverse,” said Vice Mayor Marisol Rubio.