Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.5.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Sustainable San Mateo County Economy. Equity. Environment ## Posts - [Blog & News](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/newsandevents/blog/) - [The Expanded Sustainability Dashboard](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/08/14/the-expanded-sustainability-dashboard/) - Sustainable San Mateo County Launches Expanded Sustainability Dashboard to Drive Targeted Equity & Climate Action New city-level reports for each of the 20 cities and unincorporated San Mateo County help local governments and nonprofits prioritize resources and support vulnerable communities. SAN MATEO, CA — Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) today announced the major expansion - [Your Voice, Your Future: Mastering the Art of Local Advocacy to Shape a Cleaner Peninsula](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/05/22/ssmc-advocacy-series/) - Local elected officials have a monumental task. On any given night, a City Council member might have to vote on a complex housing development, a municipal budget and a detailed climate action plan. They cannot be experts in everything—and that is exactly where you come in. Community involvement is the lifeblood of local governance. By - [Meet the 2026 SSMC Students!](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/05/27/meet-the-2026-ssmc-students/) - At Sustainable San Mateo County, we have a long history of empowering youth to build a sustainable future. Since 2019, SSMC has trained 102 interns. Students have played a vital role in developing our Indicators Reports, which spotlight local sustainability challenges and solutions, and have contributed fresh ideas to our Ideas Bank. They gain hands-on - [Water Policy 2026: Balancing Growth, Costs & the Environment](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/04/29/water-policy-2026/) - Introduction & Author’s Note In my role as the Executive Director of Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC), I often find myself at the intersection of complex regional debates. I am not a water management expert or a hydrologist; rather, my goal in writing this article is to help our community navigate the interconnected challenges of - [Ripples of Change: Highlights from the 2026 Sustainability Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/03/30/highlights-from-the-2026-sustainability-awards/) - The energy was electric at our 27th Annual Sustainability Awards Celebration. Almost 300 government leaders, community advocates and business changemakers gathered to celebrate the local pioneers proving that environmental health and economic prosperity go hand-in-hand. This year’s event was more than just a ceremony; it was an invitation. With a new format and accessible ticket - [2026 Youth Sustainability Award Winner: Chiara Luey](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/01/15/2026-youth-sustainability-award-winner-chiara-luey/) - Watch Chiara’s award video! SSMC is proud to award Chiara Luey the 2026 Youth Sustainability Award for her exceptional ability to drive ripples of impact through technical clean-energy data, local policy and global education. She does not simply advocate for a sustainable future; she engineers it through data-driven infrastructure, legislative action and a relentless passion - [2026 Sustainability Award Winner: Elaine Salinger](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/01/15/2026-sustainability-award-winner-elaine-salinger/) - Watch Elaine’s Award video! SSMC is proud to award Elaine Salinger a 2026 Sustainability Award for her extraordinary leadership as the San Mateo County Chapter Leader and Youth Mentor for Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL). Elaine has transformed climate advocacy in our region by turning passive concern into powerful, systemic political action and proving that the - [2026 Sustainability Award Winner: JobTrain](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/01/15/2026-sustainability-award-winner-jobtrain/) - Watch JobTrain’s award video! SSMC is proud to award JobTrain a 2026 Sustainability Award for its profound commitment to the “Three E’s” of sustainability: Environment, Economic vitality and social Equity. For six decades, JobTrain has served as a cornerstone of San Mateo County, evolving from a local job-training site into a regional powerhouse of economic - [2026 Sustainability Award Winner: Peninsula Precious Plastics](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/01/15/2026-sustainability-award-winner-ppp/) - Watch PPPs award video! SSMC is proud to award Peninsula Precious Plastics (PPP) a 2026 Sustainability Award for its visionary approach to circular economy principles, environmental education and community-driven manufacturing. Founded as a local Precious Plastic chapter in 2020 by local high school students determined to combat climate change, PPP has evolved into a nonprofit - [2026 Green Building Award Winner: Global Security Operations Center at Genentech](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/01/15/2026-green-building-award-winner-global-security-ops-center/) - Watch GSOC’s award video! The 2026 Green Building Award, cosponsored by Sustainable San Mateo County and the San Mateo County Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, recognizes outstanding achievements in sustainable design and construction across residential, commercial, retail and civic projects. Among this year’s highly competitive entries, Genetech’s Global Security Operations Center stood out - [Forget the Oscars: The real "Best Picture" is a thriving, green future.](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/03/16/forget-the-oscars/) - Here in the U.S., we seem to love awards. Whether it’s the Grammys for the tunes that get us through Monday mornings or the Academy Awards for the cinema that moves us, we gather to celebrate the “best of the best.” We do it to be inspired, to witness excellence, and—let’s be honest—to see who - [Transform your City's Climate and Health Goals with Plant-Based Policies](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/02/26/transform-your-citys-climate-and-health-goals-with-plant-based-policies/) - Watch the recording of SSMC’s webinar to learn how cities can reduce emissions and improve the health of their community by moving toward plant-forward food systems. Guest speakers: Sophia Hahn, former Berkeley Vice Mayor Leah Kelly from Center for Biological Diversity Samantha Lau from Plant Based Treaty From Policy to Plate: Scaling Plant-Forward Food Systems - [90 Years Young](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/02/10/90-years-young/) - SSMC Board Member Georgi LaBerge is turning 90 this month, and she shows no signs of slowing down. She regularly attends workout and balance classes, goes camping and competes every year with her husband, Warren Dale, in the National World Senior Games in St. George, Utah, where they have won multiple gold medals in power - [2026 Green Building Honorable Mention: Millbrae Recreation Center](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026/01/15/2026-green-building-honorable-mention-millbrae-rec-center/) - The Millbrae Recreation Center, recipient of the 2026 Green Building Honorable Mention cosponsored by Sustainable San Mateo County and the San Mateo County Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, is an adaptable, multi-generational, community hub built to replace the original Millbrae Community Center that was tragically lost to a fire in 2016. The Millbrae - [SSMC’s Grant Funders](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/06/18/ssmc-grant-funders/) - We are deeply grateful for the generous support of our funding partners, whose grants make our work possible. Their investment helps us build a more sustainable, equitable and resilient San Mateo County for all. Each of these organizations have demonstrated a lasting commitment to the vitality of our region and play a critical role in - [Youth vs. Executive Power: The Fight for a Climate-Safe Future | A Sustainable San Mateo County Webinar](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/09/26/lighthiser-v-trump-webinar/) - ***************** Update as of 10/21/25: Judge Christensen has dismissed the plaintiff’s constitutional right to life case, denying their request for a preliminary injunction blocking President Trump’s executive orders that direct unleashing fossil fuel energy at the expense of wind and solar. The court found it lacked the power to redress plaintiffs’ injuries. For an excellent - [Plant-Based, Climate Friendly Recipes](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/07/23/plant-based-recipes/) - Leading up to this year’s Indicators Report—which focuses on food-related emissions—we’re collecting community tested, plant-based recipes to raise awareness and build community capacity around plant-based, climate-friendly diets. Each recipe is easy to make, uses common, all non-animal ingredients and of course, is delicious! We’ll be adding a new recipe each week. For the latest recipes, - [How do we Inspire People to Care about our Climate?](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/09/11/friends-reception/) - Sustainable San Mateo County recently brought together supporters for a powerful afternoon of stories and insights on one of the most urgent questions of our time: How do we inspire more people to care about sustainability and take action? We were honored to hear from two remarkable speakers who approach this challenge from different perspectives: - [SSMC Signs the Nonprofit Racial Equity Pledge](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/09/08/nonprofit-racial-equity-pledge/) - Silicon Valley is home to deep and persistent economic and racial disparities that carry devastating consequences to Black, indigenous, and people of color. Nonprofit organizations have a responsibility and opportunity to work with our communities to fight systemic racism in our organizations and in our governmental, philanthropic, and private sector partners. Despite years of prosperity, - [SSMC Speaks about SB 254 with Senator Becker](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/08/18/sb-254-tackles-skyrocketing-electricity-rates-and-accelerates-clean-energy/) - Senator Josh Becker, Chair of the Senate Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee, has advanced Senate Bill 254 to the CA Assembly. Becker shared the details of the bill at a recent press conference and how it will both address skyrocketing electricity rates and accelerate clean energy investments. SSMC’s Executive Director Sarah Hubbard was proud to - [The Impact of SSMC](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/05/27/the-impact-of-ssmc-in-words/) - For more than 30 years, Sustainable San Mateo County has been working with local government and community leaders to make San Mateo County more sustainable for everyone. Below, leaders from across the region share how SSMC’s work has made a meaningful difference in their communities. Government and community leaders share their stories - [Meet the 2025 SSMC Students and Interns!](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/05/20/meet-the-2025-ssmc-interns/) - At Sustainable San Mateo County, we believe empowering youth is key to building a sustainable future. This year, we’re proud to welcome our 2025 Student and Intern Class—eight passionate and talented students and recent graduates ready to dive into the world of policy research and community engagement. They’ll play a vital role in developing our - [Celebrating Sustainability at SSMC’s 26th Annual Awards Celebration and Auction](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/04/14/ssmc-26th-annual-awards/) - On April 3, Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) hosted our 26th Annual Awards Celebration and Auction at the beautiful College of San Mateo—and what a night it was! We were thrilled to come together in person once again, joined by local elected officials, government staff, nonprofit leaders, advocates and community members, all united by a - [2025 Green Building Award Winner: County Office Building 3](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/02/04/2025-sustainability-award-winner-cbo3/) - The 2025 Green Building Awards, cosponsored by Sustainable San Mateo County and the San Mateo County Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, recognize outstanding achievements in sustainable design and construction across residential, commercial, retail and civic projects. Among this year’s highly competitive entries, County Office Building 3 (COB3) in Redwood City stood out for - [2025 Youth Sustainability Award Winner: Colin Chu](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/02/04/2025-youth-sustainability-award-winner-colin-chu/) - Colin Chu’s journey as an environmental advocate began when he was four years old, spending his days tide-pooling and whale-watching with his father in Half Moon Bay. These childhood memories sparked a lifelong passion for protecting the environment, especially our oceans. Witnessing the stark impact of climate change on Half Moon Bay’s ecosystems, Colin was - [2025 Sustainability Award Winner: San Mateo County Community College District](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/02/04/2025-sustainability-award-winner-smcccd/) - Sustainable San Mateo County is thrilled to honor the San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD) as a 2025 Sustainability Award winner. Serving over 29,000 students across Skyline College, Cañada College and College of San Mateo, SMCCCD operates like three vibrant cities that have embraced sustainability at their core. The District’s efforts demonstrate leadership, innovation - [2025 Sustainability Award Winner: El Concilio of San Mateo County](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/02/04/2025-sustainability-award-winner-el-concilio/) - Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) is proud to recognize El Concilio of San Mateo County as a 2025 Sustainability Award winner. Since 1980, this dedicated nonprofit has been a cornerstone of support for the Latino, immigrant and underserved communities in San Mateo County, improving quality of life and advancing meaningful policy changes. Watch our video - [2025 Sustainability Award Winner: Caltrain](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/02/04/2025-sustainability-award-winner-caltrain/) - Sustainable San Mateo County is proud to honor Caltrain as the recipient of a 2025 Sustainability Award. Caltrain’s groundbreaking electrification project is setting a gold standard for sustainable public transportation, with far-reaching environmental, economic and social equity benefits. Watch our video about Caltrain. A Leader in Green Innovation As the first diesel-to-electric conversion west of - [2025 Ruth Peterson Award Winner: John Crowell](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/03/03/2025-ruth-peterson-award-winner-john-crowell/) - The Ruth Peterson Award, established in memory of a dedicated SSMC leader and given to an invaluable SSMC volunteer, will be presented to John Crowell. John had a long and successful career working for innovative high technology companies, including Sun Microsystems and a startup, OnLive, where he gained an extensive background in finance, people and project - [Home Upgrade: Support Your Community in Decarbonizing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/02/10/home-upgrade/) - On February 6 we hosted a webinar to help cities accelerate their residents’ transition to electric appliances, improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Peninsula Clean Energy co-hosted the webinar and shared details of their new Home Upgrade services. Menlo Park’s Sustainability Manager, Rachael Londer, shared lessons learned from Menlo Park’s electrification programs. And, - [2025 Green Building Honorable Mention: Belle Haven Community Campus](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/02/04/2025-green-building-honorable-mention-belle-haven-community-campus/) - The Belle Haven Community Campus, recipient of the 2025 Green Building Honorable Mention cosponsored by Sustainable San Mateo County and the San Mateo County Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, is a shining example of how architecture can serve both environmental and social justice goals. The project was recognized in a highly competitive field, - [Power Up: Sustainability Solutions for San Mateo County’s Future](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025/01/29/power-up-sustainability-solutions-for-san-mateo-countys-future/) - Last week SSMC hosted a webinar for new and existing council members, city staff and community leaders where we reviewed the state of sustainability in our county and shared solutions to more quickly improve sustainability. San Mateo County has been a leader in sustainability, but there is still a lot of work to be done. - [How Young People Took Climate Change to Court and Won](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/10/05/how-young-people-took-climate-change-to-court-and-won/) - UPDATE: DECEMBER 18, 2024 The Montana Supreme Court has upheld the earlier district court ruling in the nation’s first constitutional climate change trial, affirming that the youth plaintiffs have a “fundamental constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment” while revoking two Montana statutes. Our Children’s Trust, who represented the youth plaintiffs, issued a press - [A cleaner future for everyone](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/12/17/charge-forward/) - Donate toward our 2025 Campaign! With the future of federal climate action uncertain, bold, local action is needed more than ever. Join us in supporting a new program to ensure clean air for all and a full and equitable transition to clean transportation. For over thirty years, SSMC has fought for sustainability in San Mateo - [Giving Tuesday: A Message of Hope](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/12/02/giving-tuesday-2024/) - Donate for GivingTuesday! Giving Tuesday is a day of celebration and hope, and a time to recognize the extraordinary things we have and will accomplish together. For over thirty years, SSMC has brought people together to create a more sustainable county. We identify the gaps, we provide solutions and we inspire people to do more. - [Meet Sustainable San Mateo County’s Newest Board Members](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/11/20/new-board-members/) - Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) proudly welcomes four passionate and accomplished individuals to our Board of Directors. Each brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to advancing sustainability across our community. Here’s a closer look at why they joined the board and their exceptional backgrounds. George Kreitem A Longtime Advocate for Local Action with Global - [Youth In Action: Carly Peters’ Patchwork with Progress](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/11/11/youth-in-action-carly-peters-patchwork-in-progress/) - Written by: Seona Srivastava, Student at Aragon High School Our Youth in Action series shines a light on the transformative community initiatives and creative environmental projects the young trailblazers of San Mateo County are doing to shape a greener, brighter future. This is our second feature of a youth playing a crucial role in driving - [Youth In Action: Colin Chu's Homeless Heroes](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/10/28/youth-in-action-colin-chus-homeless-heroes/) - Written by: Seona Srivastava, Student at Aragon High School In today’s world of environmental challenges, youth play a crucial role in driving sustainable practices. Through transformative community initiatives and creative environmental projects, the young trailblazers of San Mateo County are shaping a greener, brighter future. We’re thrilled to spotlight these incredible young individuals and share - [Powering Progress: Peninsula Clean Energy's Commitment to Sustainable Solutions](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/10/10/powering-progress-peninsula-clean-energy-commitment-to-sustainable-solutions/) - Contributed by: Peninsula Clean Energy With Peninsula Clean Energy (PCE), your community is taking action on climate change while saving money. By working together, we have steadily cut hundreds of thousands of metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions by using cleaner electricity while saving our residents and businesses millions of dollars through lower electric rates. - [Sustain SSMC Month: Annual Awards Celebration](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/09/30/sustain-ssmc-month-annual-awards-celebration/) - This is the final week of Sustain SSMC and our behind-the-scenes tour of our core programs that are helping to make San Mateo County more sustainable for everyone! This week we have an up close and personal look at our Annual Sustainability Awards. Our 2025 event will be the 26th year we come together as - [Sustain SSMC Month: Sustainability Ideas Bank](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/09/19/ssmc-month-sustainability-ideas-bank/) - We hope you’re enjoying learning about what goes on behind-the-scenes with SSMC’s core programs and seeing how they make our county more sustainable. Up next is the Sustainability Ideas Bank, a collection of over 80 solutions to the most important issues facing our cities. Most of these solutions were researched by the 62 student interns - [Sustain SSMC Month: Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/09/16/sustain-ssmc-month-indicators-report/) - We continue with our behind-the-scenes look at SSMC’s core programs that help make San Mateo County more sustainable for everyone. We can’t produce these programs without your support. As an independent 501(c)(3) organization, we rely on donors like you to sustain our work. Your donation–big or small–makes a significant difference to a local organization like - [Sustain SSMC Month](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/09/10/sustain-ssmc-month/) - Most of our community knows about some of the work we do, but do you know the impact all of our core programs are having? This month, we shared a behind-the-scenes look at how SSMC creates our core programs and how they help make San Mateo County more sustainable for everyone. Take a look at - [Beyond Freeway Expansion: Lessons Learned](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/09/18/beyond-freeway-expansion-lessons-learned/) - SSMC hosted three expert speakers to talk about the impacts and alternatives to freeway widening. The event, titled “Beyond Freeway Expansion: Exploring Sustainable Alternatives” drew a diverse audience including elected government leaders and city and county staff, non profit leaders and community advocates. Speakers shared facts about freeway widening, offered a list of actions individuals - [Announcing the 2024 SSMC Summer Interns](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/06/27/2024-summer-interns/) - SSMC strives to educate and support our youth to be part of creating a more sustainable world. This year we announced for the first time our Youth Sustainability Award and in April we hosted our second annual Youth for Climate Policy event. Today we’re thrilled to announce our 2024 SSMC Summer Intern Class! This year, - [Strong Progress and More to Do](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/07/09/strong-progress-and-more-to-do/) - Dear Friends of Sustainable San Mateo County, As we reach the midyear mark, I am excited to share some updates on Sustainable San Mateo County‘s progress, and more importantly, highlight the exciting opportunities ahead. The recent heat waves have reminded us of the urgent need to equitably address climate change and its impacts. Ensuring that - [E-Bikes: What Cities Can Do to Support This Sustainable Alternative to Driving](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/06/20/e-bikes/) - Transportation emissions are one of the biggest sources of greenhouse gas emissions for San Mateo County. While electric vehicles are showing strong growth, EVs are just one part of the solution. We are going to need a multi-modal approach including walking, cycling and public transit to prevent the disastrous effects of global warming. E-bikes have - [Clean the Air and Get Rebates: How to Replace your Gas Water Heater](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/05/07/heat_pump_water_heaters/) - Contributed by Gerard Manning and Terry Nagel There are some super deals available right now for replacing your gas water heater if you are income qualified, and bargains for everyone are expected soon. But these pots of money are limited, so it’s important to act quickly. Currently, residents of San Mateo County who make less - [Summer Internship Positions Now Open](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/04/25/summer-internship-positions-now-open/) - Are you passionate about sustainability and eager to make a tangible impact in your community? Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) is offering an exciting summer internship opportunity that might just be what you’re looking for! As a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing sustainability initiatives in San Mateo County, SSMC is inviting college students to join - [2024 Green Building Award Winner: The Nueva School's Science and Environmental Center](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/02/14/2024awards_nueva/) - The 2024 Green Building Award, cosponsored by Sustainable San Mateo County, the American Institute of Architects, San Mateo County Chapter and Peninsula Clean Energy, is presented to The Nueva School’s Science and Environmental Center. The Science and Environmental Center, which opened in 2021, supports the school’s evolving mission of sustainability and environmental stewardship as a - [2024 Youth Sustainability Award Winner: Kayla Ling](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/02/14/2024awards-kayla-ling/) - Just 15 years old, this remarkable sophomore at The Nueva School is making waves in the areas of environmental advocacy and social justice through her passion for video storytelling. Her commitment to inspiring others and mobilizing communities has earned her our first-ever Youth Sustainability Award. Kayla is a stand-out leader at her school, where she - [2024 Sustainability Award Winner: Youth Climate Ambassadors](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/02/14/2024awards_yca/) - The Youth Climate Ambassadors (YCA) Leadership Program is a first of its kind in California. The program is a knowledge-to-action seven-month long leadership program that provides 9-12th grade students in San Mateo County the opportunity to explore social and environmental issues contributing to the global climate crisis. Over the past five years, 273 students have - [2024 Sustainability Award Winner: Samuel Herzberg](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/02/13/2024awards-herzberg/) - As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the San Mateo County Parks Department, there is quite possibly no one who has had more impact on the sustainability of our county’s outdoor space than Samuel Herzberg. If you’ve visited a San Mateo County park, trail, beach or open space, you have benefited from Sam’s work. Sam - [2024 Sustainability Award Winner: Byrd’s Filling Station](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/02/13/2024award-byrdsfillingstation/) - As San Mateo County’s first and only grocer focused on the sustainability of each product and the supply chain, Byrd’s Filling Station has reimagined a grocery store without single-use plastics. Since opening in May 2022, it has already eliminated over 100,000 pieces of single-use plastics. Laura Porter started Byrd’s Filling Station to give busy people - [Celebrating Sustainability Together: SSMC's 25th Annual Awards Celebration](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/04/12/celebrating-sustainability-together-ssmcs-25th-annual-awards-celebration/) - On April 10th, Sustainable San Mateo County marked a significant milestone with its 25th Annual Awards Celebration, and what an unforgettable evening it was! Nearly 300 individuals, all driven by a common passion for sustainability, converged to celebrate progress, recognize exemplary efforts, and forge new connections. The event served as a powerful reminder of the - [2024 Green Building Honorable Mention: The Bay Meadows Urban Village](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/02/14/2024awards_bay_meadows/) - A Green Building Honorable Mention, cosponsored by Sustainable San Mateo County, the American Institute of Architects, San Mateo County Chapter and Peninsula Clean Energy, will be awarded to The Bay Meadows Urban Village. Set alongside the Caltrain Station and Highway 101 and only a stone’s throw from the bay in San Mateo, this development serves - [2024 Ruth Peterson Award to Be Presented to Bernard Bruand](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/02/14/2024awards-bernard-bruand/) - The Ruth Peterson Award, established in memory of a dedicated SSMC leader and given to an invaluable SSMC volunteer, will be presented to Bernard Bruand. Bernard does not shy away from the complex and global nature of climate change and building a sustainable community. He was born in France and graduated from Lyon University with - [The New Sustainability Ideas Bank: Online, Searchable and Downloadable!](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/01/31/the-new-ideas-bank/) - Implement new sustainability programs and policies in less time with fewer issues. Doing anything for the very first time is hard. There’s a learning curve. Like when I recently built kitchen cabinets. The first one was a painstaking process to figure out which pieces went together, in what order, which screws to use, how far - [The Role of Green Building Awards in Advancing Sustainability](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/01/02/jan-12-due-date-for-green-building-award/) - Applications for SSMC’s 2024 Green Building Award are now closed. The winner will be celebrated at SSMC’s 25th Annual Awards Event on April 10th. Green building plays a pivotal role in advancing sustainability efforts by integrating environmentally responsible practices into the design, construction and operation of structures. The environmental impact of traditional construction methods, including - [Outreach Lead Mollie Carter Joins SSMC to Expand Sustainability Impact with Partners](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024/01/18/outreach-lead-mollie-carter-joins-ssmc-to-expand-sustainability-impact-with-partners/) - We are delighted to announce a significant addition to the Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) team–Mollie Carter, our new Communications and Outreach Lead. This strategic hire marks a pivotal moment for SSMC as we expand our efforts to drive sustainability initiatives in the region. Mollie brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to - [Simona Vallone to Lead SSMC’s New Integrated Program Strategy](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/12/21/simona-vallone-to-lead-ssmcs-new-integrated-program-strategy/) - Following the recent appointment of our new Executive Director Sarah Hubbard in October, Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) is thrilled to unveil another exciting development within our team and in our efforts to create a more sustainable and just future. We are delighted to announce the expanded role of Program Manager Simona Vallone, who will - [Foster City's Lending Library](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/12/13/foster-citys-lending-library/) - Birthday parties are lots of fun, but they can generate a lot of waste as a result of the single-use paper goods people typically use. Inspired by Palo Alto's zero waste effort, the parents' association at The Carey School invested in a party kit with enough reusable supplies for a party with 40 kids. Nilu - [Indicators Report Reveals Challenges and Opportunities](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/10/30/15472/) - Sustainable San Mateo County’s 2023 Indicators Report reveals some surprising facts about pressures that are making life difficult for families in the county. At a Launch Event attended by 80 people on October 26, speakers described how county agencies and local nonprofits are still struggling to keep up with the increased demand for services triggered - [Calling All Environmental Heroes](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/10/30/calling-all-environmental-heroes/) - Peninsula Clean Energy is seeking community insights and feedback from environmental advocates to help shape its future customer offerings. You’re invited to share ideas for new products and services during a special webinar hosted by Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) on Wednesday, November 15, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Zoom. You can register for - [SSMC Selects Executive Director](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/10/27/ssmc-selects-executive-director/) - Sustainable San Mateo County is thrilled to introduce you to its new Executive Director, Sarah Hubbard! After previously serving as the Program Manager for our Sustainability Ideas Bank and Dashboard programs, Sarah welcomes this new role with enthusiasm. Her deep understanding of our programs, priorities, and your concerns make her the perfect fit to guide - [Free Program Features Young People in Landmark Climate Lawsuit](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/08/29/free-program-feature-victors-in-landmark-climate-lawsuit/) - One of the lead attorneys and two of the 16 young plaintiffs who recently won a landmark climate lawsuit that made international headlines will discuss the case on Tuesday, October 3, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at a free program presented by Sustainable San Mateo County and cosponsored by Burlingame’s Department of Parks and Recreation - [Overcoming Obstacles to EV Charging Expansion](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/08/22/overcoming-obstacles-to-ev-charging-expansion/) - An expert from Peninsula Clean Energy and researchers from Stanford University will describe innovative ideas for overcoming barriers to building out a much-needed network of public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations during a free “Happy Hour” program on Wednesday, August 30, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Zoom. Hosted by Sustainable San Mateo County, Happy - [We’re Hiring!](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/06/28/were-hiring/) - Sustainable San Mateo County is seeking a full-time Executive Director.. The Executive Director will lead SSMC and be responsible for promoting the organization, fundraising and overall management of our staff, programs and budget. This person will be charged with expanding and optimizing SSMC's operations in order to significantly increase the organization's impact. For details, visit - [How Cities Shape Global Sustainable Development](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/07/10/how-cities-shape-global-sustainable-development/) - The recently published U20 2023 Communiqué to G20 leaders highlights the importance of collaborative action in addressing global sustainability challenges. It also underscores the significance of organizations like Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) and their efforts to connect with and support initiatives like G20 and U20, which bring together leaders from around the world to - [SSMC Expands Ideas Bank](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/06/28/ssmc-expands-ideas-bank/) - Take a look! We’ve just launched our new, expanded Sustainability Ideas Bank to help local cities and businesses accelerate sustainability. And with the help of 10 new summer interns, we’ll have even more solutions available by the fall. To meet these new members of the SSMC team, click here. Located on our website here, the Ideas - [Youth for Climate Policy](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/05/25/youth-for-climate-policy-event/) - The powerful combination of Earth Week events and student empowerment has continued to sustain a global movement toward a more sustainable future. On April 21, 2023, nearly eighty students from across the Bay Area joined together for “Youth for Climate Policy,” an online Earth Day event aimed at empowering the future generation of leaders to - [Watts Next? Sparking Electrification for All](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/06/21/watts-next-sparking-electrification-for-all/) - Our highly interactive June 7, 2023 Happy Hour brought our community together to explore how to shape the future of home electrification in San Mateo County. This was a unique opportunity for the general public and interested parties to share their ideas and input for making home electrification easier, less expensive, and faster. Our thanks - [Check Out Our Ideas Bank!](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/03/14/check-out-our-ideas-bank/) - We’ve launched our new, expanded Sustainability Ideas Bank to help local cities and businesses accelerate sustainability. The Ideas Bank shares nearly 80 sustainability solutions from cities and businesses that have proven successful in San Mateo County as well as many other areas. It makes it easier for leaders to address climate change and other issues - [SSMC Seeks Summer Interns](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/04/12/ssmc-seeks-summer-interns/) - SSMC has a limited number of positions available for college-age summer interns this summer to work on our Sustainability Ideas Bank. Three will be paid a stipend of $800 for 8 weeks of work. Others are volunteer positions with more flexibility. To learn what’s involved, click here. To read what some of our past interns - [Program Aims to Empower Youths](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/04/12/program-aims-to-empower-youths/) - In celebration of Earth Day, six local organizations promoting climate action will host “Youth for Climate Policy,” a free webinar designed to show youths how they can effectively influence local government leaders to address climate change. This program will take place on Zoom on Friday, April 21, from 5 to 6 p.m. Admission is free, - [Big Turnout for SSMC’s Awards Celebration](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023/04/12/big-turnout-for-ssmcs-awards-celebration/) - Nearly 300 people attended Sustainable San Mateo County’s 24th Annual Awards Celebration on March 30 at the College of San Mateo to honor champions of sustainability, bid on auction items and enjoy dinner together. It was the first time the event was held in person since 2019, and attendees greeted old friends with great enthusiasm. - [Solar + Storage for Public Buildings Program](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022/12/21/solar-storage-for-public-buildings-program/) - SSMC’s December 2022 Happy Hour featured Peter Levitt from Peninsula Clean Energy (PCE) highlighting PCE’s new Solar + Storage for Public Buildings Program. The program is designed to help public agencies and school districts install solar photovoltaic energy and solar+battery backup systems on public facilities. Program objectives include: reducing customer energy costs; insulating against rising - [2019 Key Indicator: Climate Change - How do we respond?](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2019/10/28/new-key-indicator-2019-climate-change-how-do-we-respond/) - Climate change will impact the socio-economic viability of every community while also affecting infrastructure, built systems, social aspects and public health. Extreme and rapid changes in temperature, precipitation, and sea level are certain to impact health, natural resources, coastal ecology, transportation, energy infrastructure, and food and water security. In 2018, Sustainable San Mateo County’s Annual - [SSMC Releases 2022 Indicators Report on Building Electrification](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022/11/29/ssmc-releases-2022-indicators-report-on-building-electrification/) - San Mateo County’s transition from natural gas to electricity to power buildings is the focus of the 26th annual Indicators Report, which Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) unveiled on November 10 at Genentech in South San Francisco. To access the Indicators Report, a 4-page brochure and a video of the Indicators Report Launch event, go - [Electrify Everything! Join SSMC’s Green Electrification Photo and Short Video Contest](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022/08/31/electrify-everything-join-ssmcs-green-electrification-photo-and-short-video-contest/) - Electrify Everything! NEW DEADLINE: 09/30! Join SSMC’s Green Electrification Photo and Short Video Contest Submit your best green infrastructure photo(s) and short video(s) (30-90 sec. long) by 11:59PM PST on September 30th. No professional experience required. Your entry could win a great prize and will help raise awareness of the multiple benefits of electrifying our - [Meet our Interns](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022/08/13/meet-our-interns/) - [Connecting Art to Social Action](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022/08/12/connecting-art-to-social-action/) - Art is a universally appreciated mode of expression and communication that can move a wide range of people. July’s Virtual Happy Hour explored how art can raise awareness, trigger empathy and motivate people to take action with the help of two professional artists: Joshua Harrison and Anthony Bianconi. Both Artists shared their recent projects and - [Making Public Transit in the Bay Area Sustainable](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022/06/18/13660/) - With the arrival of Caltrain’s new electric trains this year and the full electrification of Caltrain’s San Francisco Corridor on the horizon, our June 2022 Happy Hour focused on looking at the Bay Area’s public transit systems to see how they can be optimized for a more sustainable future. Three transit experts shared different approaches - [High Voltage, Low Impact Buildings: Building Electrification Efforts in San Mateo County](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022/04/27/high-voltage-low-impact-buildings-building-electrification-efforts-in-san-mateo-county/) - The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report released earlier this month warned that to stay within 1.5 °C of climate change, greenhouse gas emissions must peak by 2025 or earlier before declining. The report gave the effort to decarbonize buildings through electrification more urgency, but scientists have long known the risks of using natural - [Climate and Environment Forum](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022/03/09/climate-and-environment-forum/) - Several candidates running for the Congressional seat currently held by Jackie Speier participated in a forum on environmental and sustainability issues on April 6. They are competing in the Primary Election taking place June 7; the two top vote-getter will advance to the General Election in November. Congresswoman Speier will be stepping down at the - [Time to Turn off the Faucet: Drought Implications in San Mateo County](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022/03/30/time-to-turn-off-the-faucet-drought-implications-in-san-mateo-county/) - As the growing multiyear drought in California continues to make headlines, we were happy to invite two water experts to speak at our March Happy Hour. Tom Francis, the Bay Area Water Supply and Conservation Agency’s (BAWSCA) Water Resource Manager gave an update on the status of the drought in San Mateo County, while Kan - [Turning Organic Waste into Gold](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022/03/03/turning-organic-waste-into-gold/) - #post_excerptCalifornia's new law, SB 1383, will require more composting. - [December 2021 Happy Hour](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/12/17/december-2021-happy-hour/) - December’s Happy Hour’s addressed the important topic of how to get to clean energy 24/7 – a must if we want to successfully address climate change. Our guest speakers were Senator Josh Becker, representing California Senate District 13 covering San Mateo County and northern Santa Clara County and Jan Pepper, CEO of Peninsula Clean Energy. - [Focus on Biodiversity](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/11/23/october-sustainability-happy-hour-by-susie-hodges/) - For the October Sustainability Happy Hour, we looked at biodiversity (the variety of life found within a particular ecosystem or habitat) in the Bay Area. We were joined by two knowledgeable experts, Sophie Christel from Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and Annie Burke from TOGETHER Bay Area. They shared strategies being employed by groups across - [Indicator Report Highlights Solutions for Equitable Housing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/10/21/indicator-report-highlights-solutions-for-equitable-housing/) - Sustainable San Mateo County’s Indicators Report Launch on October 19 focused on the need for affordable, sustainable housing and highlighted strategies that can make affordable housing for all a reality. It was the 25th year Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) has presented in-depth research on one aspect of sustainability in San Mateo County. This year’s - [Air Quality for All](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/10/01/air-quality-for-all/) - At Sustainable San Mateo County’s Happy Hour on July 20 titled “Air Quality for Equality”, attendees discussed disparities in air quality in San Mateo County and the wider Bay Area. Guest speaker David Canepa, who serves on the county’s Board of Supervisors and sits also on the Board of Directors at the Bay Area Air - [In Vogue: Sustainability in the Fashion Industry](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/10/01/in-vogue-sustainability-in-the-fashion-industry/) - Our August Happy Hour explored sustainability in the fashion industry. We were pleased to have Gary Barker, Eszter Csicsai, and Emily Schneider speak at the Happy Hour and share the ways they are working toward a more sustainable fashion industry - from sustainable hangers to metrics that compare products' sustainability to resale opportunities. Gary Barker - [Embodied Energy in Construction Material](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/08/02/embodied-energy-in-construction-material/) - What is embodied energy in construction materials and why does it matter? Interested to learn more? Click on the pdf image on your right side to read our article on this important topic. Article - [San Mateo County Gets Ready for Wildfire Season](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/07/17/san-mateo-county-gets-ready-for-wildfire-season/) - In 2020 alone, while nearly 2.5 million Californians were infected by COVID-19, nearly 10,000 fires burned 4.2 million acres across the state (The New York Times 2021, Cal Fire 2020). That is more than one football field’s worth of land burned for each Californian infected by COVID-19. Fire preparedness is pivotal to preserving the health - [Just How Bad Is the Drought?](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/06/30/just-how-bad-is-the-drought/) - On June 22, Santa Clara County’s Board of Supervisors declared a local emergency due to this year’s extreme drought conditions. To date, 2021 ranks as the second driest year for California, with 1977 being the driest year on record. Yet San Mateo County hasn’t asked residents to cut back water use. Why? At our June - [Innovations for a Low Carbon Food System](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/06/14/innovations-for-a-low-carbon-food-system/) - At our May 26 Happy Hour, our guest speaker, Jill Kauffman Johnson explained how microalgae and other microorganisms can help us work toward a low carbon food system. Jill is the Executive Advisor of Sustainability and Society at Corbion (http://www.corbion.com/), a bio-based products company centered around innovative food and specialty ingredients derived from microalgae. Food - [Hit the Road in Green Mode](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/05/14/hit-the-road-in-green-mode/) - Our Happy Hour on April 15 explored sustainable transportation in San Mateo County. We were excited to have Carlos Moreno from Peninsula Clean Energy, Mary Thomasmeyer from Commute.org and Emma Shales from Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition (SVBC) as guest speakers. Carlos, the Community Outreach Specialist for Peninsula Clean Energy, explained that since Peninsula Clean Energy - [March Happy Hour](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/04/07/march-happy-hour/) - On March 23, for our third Happy Hour of the year, we welcomed sustainability managers from the Cities of Brisbane, Burlingame and Half Moon Bay, as well as a representative from the San Mateo County Office of Sustainability, to discuss sustainability efforts in our county. Adrienne Etherton, sustainability manager for Brisbane, explained how the city - [The Opposite of Privilege is Oppression. Read That Again.](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/03/03/the-opposite-of-privilege-is-oppression-read-that-again/) - Our Happy Hour on February 22 drew our community closer as we dove deeply into the topic of “White Privilege and Allyship.” Our guest speaker was Sydney Richardson-Gorski, a California native turned DC transplant who is an advocate for: Youth in the juvenile justice system Lower pharmaceutical drug prices Repeal of the 2017 Tax Cuts - [A Brief Guide to the Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2017/11/06/a-brief-guide-to-the-indicators-report/) - What gets measured, gets managed For those new to the SSMC Indicators Report or just seeking a refresher, this extensive examination of our County's economy, environment, and overall well-being, provides critical independent statistics and summarized insights on the most pressing regional issues. With rolling coverage of 12 categories -- including education, energy, healthcare, and housing - [Virtual Happy Hour](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021/01/30/virtual-happy-hour/) - For our first Happy Hour of 2021, we welcomed Dr. Mathis Wackernagel, cofounder of the Ecological Footprint and President of the Global Footprint Network. He explained different ways to view how humans have impacted the planet and we discussed how we can all tread more lightly on our planet. As we add up all the - [Mindful Holidays: A Chance to rethink the Holidays](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2020/12/18/mindful-holidays-a-chance-to-rethink-the-holidays/) - In a “normal” year this would be the time to do your last minute shopping, travel to see family, and start celebrating with big family dinners and parties. But this year has been unlike any other: a global pandemic, social unrest, the imminent effects of a changing climate and so much more. Although all of - [Creating Win-Wins with Green Jobs](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2020/11/25/creating-win-wins-with-green-jobs/) - For our October Happy Hour, we were joined by Justine Burt, Founder and CEO of Appraccel, a local environmental sustainability consulting firm. Justine has worked with organizations including NASA, Costco, and the U.S House of Representatives and brings a wealth of knowledge about green jobs to the table. Fun fact about Justine: She is not - [Indicator Report Launch Offers Hopeful Responses to Climate Crisis](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2020/10/19/indicator-report-launch-offers-hopeful-responses-to-climate-crisis/) - Those attending Sustainable San Mateo County’s online Key Indicators Launch on October 6 came away with many reasons for hope. We were given the gift of a very doable list of effective actions to take in response to the climate crisis. If you did not have an opportunity to log in, we encourage you to - [2020 Key Indicator](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2020/09/04/2020-key-indicator/) - Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency The Dual-Axis Solar Carport in Burlingame supports up to 600 solar panels. Conventional fossil-fuel energy sources such as coal and natural gas are huge contributors to climate change. Non-renewable electricity and power generation use large amounts of scarce energy and water resources and pollute both the air and water, greatly - [Batteries, Bottles and Bags, Oh My!](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2020/10/05/batteries-bottles-and-bags-oh-my/) - Sustainable San Mateo welcomed Joe La Mariana, Executive Director at RethinkWaste, to its eighth Happy Hour on the evening of September 30. RethinkWaste is a standalone public agency and a $140M/year operation in the Bay Area. The agency owns and manages the Shoreway Environmental Center in San Carlos. The Center receives all the recyclables, green - [Fighting Fire with Power](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2020/09/22/fighting-fire-with-power/) - Kirsten Andrews-Schwind, Senior Manager of Community Relations at Peninsula Clean Energy (PCE),* joined us during one of our monthly Happy Hour online discussions on July 29 to talk about energy resilience in the county, a hot topic especially as we move into wildfire season. Last fall PG&E had several public safety power shutoffs (PSPS) in - [New updates to the SSMC website](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2013/03/04/new-updates-to-the-ssmc-website/) - SustainableSanMateo.org is undergoing changes to make your SSMC online experience better. Videos from the 14th Annual Sustainability and Green Building Awards The 7 recipients of a 2013 Sustainability or Green Building Award are highlighted in the videos on the Awards page. Newsletters page You can now view our online newsletter archive on our newsletters page. - [Making Investments Sustainable](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2020/09/22/11333/) - Rev. Kirsten Snow Spalding of Ceres, the guest presenter at Sustainable San Mateo County’s Virtual Happy Hour on August 27, said current trends influencing sustainable investment include fossil fuel divestment from individual portfolios, engaging with heavy-emitting companies to move them to become more sustainable and focusing on private equity. Rev. Spalding is Senior Program Director, Investor - [My Summer Internship with SSMC](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2020/09/22/my-summer-internship-with-ssmc/) - Centralized or decentralized? Purple pipes or potable reuse? Five weeks ago, this would have sounded like the oddest game of “Would You Rather” I’d ever played. But learning about the conversations Bay Area cities, organizations and engineers are having about the future of our water supply has felt like being introduced to a new world! - [Holding Oil Companies Accountable: Takeaways from Stanford Law School’s panel on “The Case for Climate Liability”](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2020/08/11/holding-oil-companies-accountable-takeaways-from-stanford-law-schools-panel-on-the-case-for-climate-liability/) - By Calista Triantis Local cities and counties are leading the way in holding fossil fuel companies legally responsible for climate change. San Francisco, Oakland, Richmond, Santa Cruz County, San Mateo County and Marin County have all joined multi-billion-dollar lawsuits across the U.S. against major oil companies for the impacts of climate change on their communities. - [Food for Thought: Zoonotic Diseases and the Link to our Food Systems](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2020/06/01/food-for-thoughts-zoonotic-diseases-and-the-link-to-our-food-systems/) - What is going on with our food systems? This was a question that was brought up in one of our monthly Happy Hours and we think it is an important question to put into focus. A food system is defined as the path that food travels from field to fork. It includes the growing, harvesting, - [Environmental Justice and Youth](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2020/08/11/environmental-justice-and-youth/) - By: Lizzie Avila On June 30, we held our fifth Virtual Happy Hour in the midst of racial tensions between police and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) communities following the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and many others. We think this is a very important time to use this platform to examine - [Impossible Foods: Lowering the Carbon Footprint with Plant-burgers](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2018/11/19/impossible-foods-lowering-the-carbon-footprint-with-plant-burgers/) - The founders of local start-up, Impossible Foods, were inspired to make a product that would curb meat-lover's carbon footprint and improve biodiversity. At a tour of their facility, we learned that over time the planet's biodiversity has taken a dive as humans and the cattle we harvest represent an increasing amount of terrestrial biomass. In - [SSMC at the Bay Area Climate Emergency Town Hall](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2018/09/11/ssmc-at-the-bay-area-climate-emergency-town-hall/) - With our focus on climate this year, we jumped at the chance to learn from a diverse group of leaders, scientists, and activists at the Bay Area Climate Emergency Town Hall. Hosted by the City of Berkeley, which recently declared a climate emergency, the meeting encouraged "accelerated timelines for the elimination of GHG emissions" through - [Experts and leaders addressing the "Future of Transportation" in Redwood City](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2019/06/07/experts-and-leaders-addressing-the-future-of-transportation-in-redwood-city/) - Peninsula Family Service, a nonprofit serving local families in four Bay Area Counties - including San Mateo County - organized "The Future of Transportation: Clean Energy & Transformation" event as part of its Thought Leader Series. The May 15, 2019 event was co-sponsored by Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) along with Peninsula Clean Energy (PCE) - [SSMC Indicators Report Launch Event highlights local successes](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2018/11/21/ssmc-indicators-report-launch-event-highlights-local-successes/) - Six speakers offered ideas on reducing carbon emissions at a Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) luncheon on November 1 unveiling the 22nd annual Indicators Report, which focuses on climate change. Sponsored by and Peninsula Clean Energy, the event welcomed over 100 attendees and exhibitors, and was supported by a team of SSMC's volunteers. The updated - [COVID Q&A with Supervisor Dave Pine](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2020/04/22/covid-qa-with-supervisor-dave-pine/) - A Q&A with San Mateo County Supervisor Dave Pine kicked off SSMC's second virtual happy hour Thursday night, April 16. He addressed questions on the County's public health and economic responses to COVID, and what it will take to get back to normal. "Time has taken on a whole different pace during this COVID crisis. - [SSMC Hosted its First Virtual Sustainability Happy Hour](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2020/04/13/ssmc-hosted-its-first-virtual-sustainability-happy-hour/) - The coronavirus postponed SSMC’s Annual Awards dinner to July 10 but it didn’t stop our community from coming together virtually. Many attendees had marked Thursday, April 2 on their calendars for SSMC's Annual Awards dinner. When the pandemic upended the celebration and our lives seemingly overnight, our resilient community still found a way to connect. - [SSMC June 2018 Event: Speakers Give Tips on Engaging Communities](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2018/06/30/ssmc-june-2018-event-speakers-give-tips-on-engaging-communities/) - "There's no question that climate change is the challenge of our time," Supervisor Dave Pine told those attending a Sustainable San Mateo County event called "Mobilize Your Community to Solve Climate Change" on June 15 at the San Carlos Public Library. The San Mateo County supervisor explained how that message was driven home to him - [Sustainability Conference This Saturday, April 28, 2018](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2018/04/25/sustainability-conference-this-saturday-april-28-2018/) - Dig in to a lively afternoon of learning about local sustainability projects and how you can make an impact. Local experts will explain the surprising benefits of carbon farming, share accomplishments in renewable energy, and demonstrate the science behind home composting. Thanks to Peninsula Clean Energy, the first 100 registrants will receive a free copy - [The Clean Energy Revolution in San Mateo County](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2017/12/22/the-clean-energy-revolution-in-san-mateo-county/) - Community Choice Aggregation delivers 100% clean energy to San Mateo County residents - [2012 Indicators Online!](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2012/03/04/2012-indicators-online/) - Download the PDF of the 2012 report by clicking here. (Note: file is 11.74MB). You may also request a hard copy of the report and/or summary by calling 650.638.2323. - [Support Our Backyard Beekeepers](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2017/10/03/support-our-backyard-beekeepers/) - Beekeeping regulations in San Mateo County need relaxing to encourage urban beekeeping. - [Adrienne's Farewell Message](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2017/09/27/adriennes-farewell-message/) - Our Executive Director moves on to a new opportunity in the City of Brisbane - [Innovations in Civic and Government Technology](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2017/09/25/innovations-in-civic-and-government-technology/) - Innovate Your State's Third Annual Showcase of technological innovations for civic and government agencies - [Celebrating 25 Years!](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2017/06/28/celebrating25years/) - Join us as we celebrate 25 years of promoting a better, more sustainable world for all in San Mateo County. - [Green Business Celebration & Networking](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2017/01/04/green-biz-celebration/) - The San Mateo County Green Business Program and Sustainable San Mateo County are teaming up to host a celebration and networking event for local sustainability professionals. Join us for a fun evening to meet and mingle with green business professionals, sustainability advocates and others working to make our county and region healthy and vibrant. Devil's - [Full house for Housing & Transportation Solutions Discussion at Spring Indicators Launch](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2017/06/09/full-house-for-housing-transportation-solutions-discussion-at-spring-indicators-launch/) - Housing and transportation are two of the largest household expenses, and we had a full house at our Indicators Report Launch event centered on housing and transportation solutions. We shared our newest research and welcomed an expert panel representing local government, businesses, and advocacy groups. Speakers shared ideas to bring communities to together to collaborate - [Converting Waste Gas to Biofuel](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2017/08/22/converting-waste-gas-to-biofuel/) - Generating vehicle power from waste methane gas - [2016 Feast At The Farm](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2016/06/15/2016feastatthefarm/) - [metaslider id=5555] Join SSMC Board Member, local chef, and winemaker, Dan Peterson for our 8th annual Feast at the Farm fundraiser for Sustainable San Mateo County. Enjoy local farm fresh products paired with exceptional wine. Tour the farm. Meet with local farmers. Experience the stunning beauty of the San Mateo Coast. Saturday, July 23, 2016 - [Produce & Fish Calendar](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2016/06/28/produce-fish-calendar/) - As part of SSMC's research on our 2016 Key Indicator: Food Systems, our Indicators team created this fun infographic showing the growing and catching seasons for produce and fish in San Mateo County. Fresh off the press, we placed this handout at our County Fair booth and heard it was one of the most popular - [SSMC Endorses Measure K - Affordability and Quality of Life in San Mateo County](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2016/09/28/yesonk/) - Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC), a nonprofit operating in the county for over 20 years, is dedicated to the long-term health and vitality of San Mateo County through environmental protection, economic development, and social equity. SSMC has thoroughly analyzed and vetted proposed Measure K and supports its passage. Measure K seeks to extend the - [A trip on the Easymile EZ10 self-drive electric shuttle](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2017/07/20/a-trip-on-the-easymile-ez10-self-drive-electric-shuttle/) - The future of electric mass transit: autonomous buses - [Important Notes for Awards Attendees](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2014/03/31/important-notes-for-awards-attendees/) - The 2014 Sustainability Awards are almost here! Nearly 300 people are signed up to join SSMC, international sustainability icon Dr. Brundtland, community leaders and award winners at the 15th Annual Sustainability Awards on Thursday April 3, 2014 at the College of San Mateo. If you're one of them, we can't wait to see you! Here - [2013 Indicators Report Launch & Lunch - May 21st](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2013/02/18/2013-indicators-report-launch-lunch-may-21st/) - 2013 Indicators Report Launch & Lunch Join us for the release of the 17th Annual Indicators for a Sustainable San Mateo County! Tuesday, May 21 11:30AM-1:30PM Sobrato Center for Nonprofits 350 Twin Dolphin Dr, Redwood CityComplimentary light lunch provided Featuring a panel of experts on our Key Indicator: Income Inequality, including: Joshua Hugg, Program Manager - [Winter 2014 Indicators Report Highlights Consequences of an Improving Economy](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2014/02/01/winter-2014-indicators/) - More jobs, declining affordability will increase traffic congestion San Mateo County sees high levels of cross-county commuting, as 60% of people employed in the county live in other areas and must commute in for work. On a given workday, nearly 200,000 workers commute into San Mateo County, while a similar number of residents commute out - [2012 Indicators Put to Good Use](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2012/02/24/2012-indicators-put-to-good-use/) - Save the Bay campaign manager Josh Sonnenfeld, who attended the 2012 Indicators launch this Monday, wrote a great piece using information from the report to support the land use objectives of his organization. Click HERE to see more... Is - products, and another in makeup gotten that steps back very January, into in product. The - [The Good Food Movement](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2016/06/09/goodfood/) - Here at SSMC, we are learning as much as we can about Food Systems for this year's Indicators Report focused on the topic. We are excited to be a small part of a much broader movement across the region and the country to make "good food" the norm. Next week, we're hosting an Indicators Launch - [Info for Sustainability Awards attendees](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2016/03/29/for-2016-awards-attendees/) - Coming to the 2016 Sustainability Awards? Here are some important notes for you! **TICKET SALES ARE NOW CLOSED** You may contact our office at 650.638.2323 to inquire about additional tickets at the door Visit our Awards page for more information about the awards program and this year's winners and sponsors. The Basics: Thursday, March 31, - [Fun & delicious research](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2016/02/23/fun-delicious-research/) - Recently, we took a team trip to KitchenTown, for research purposes, of course. Our main objective was taste the local food system. And after two hours of arduous studies, we can positively affirm that the local food system is delicious. KitchenTown is essentially an incubator for food startups, where local producers have access to state-of-the-art - [Feast at the Farm is back! ](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2015/06/16/feast-at-the-farm/) - Join SSMC Board Member, local chef, and winemaker, Dan Peterson for our 7th annual Feast at the Farm fundraiser for Sustainable San Mateo County. Saturday, August 22, 2015 - Farm tour starts at 4:00pm with dinner to follow. Potrero Ñuevo Farm - 1045 Tunitas Creek Road, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019. [metaslider id=5555] Enjoy local - [El Camino Real: A Historic Perspective](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2015/04/10/el-camino-real-a-historic-perspective/) - The path of El Camino Real (Spanish for "the Royal Road") was blazed by Padre Junipero Serra, a Spanish Franciscan friar who founded a mission in Baja California as well as the first nine of 21 Spanish missions between San Diego and San Francisco. The route of El Camino Real changed due to weather, travel - [2015 Key Indicator: Water](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2015/03/24/2015-key-indicator-water/) - This year our key indicator is water. That means we will be highlighting ongoing issues about conservation efforts, water supply, and how we assess our water usage levels throughout the year. Water is required in many aspects of our daily life - everybody is affected. Climate change is changing our traditional weather patterns. We are - [2015 Award Winner Greencitizen: The E-waste Tsunami](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2015/03/17/2015-award-winner-greencitizen-the-e-waste-tsunami/) - by Nathanael Horton GreenCitizen is pioneering a business model that tackles the electronic waste crisis. They are one of the honorees being celebrated at our March 26th Sustainability Awards Dinner. Ticket sales run until March 19th, so get yours now at sustainablesanmateo.org/awards Our e-garbage is pooling up. This county and adjacent principalities are host to - [2015 Award Winner Devil's Canyon: Fermenting Bonds Between People](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2015/03/01/2015-award-winner-devils-canyon-fermenting-bonds/) - Brewing alcohol is an ancient technology and cultural tradition. Before convenient technologies like refrigeration, irradiation, vacuum sealing (canning) - it was difficult to preserve food calories for long periods of time. One method of saving grains is dry storage. Another is fermentation. Early techniques were crude - beer and wines were rude to the taste, - [Calm Down! Completing our Streets](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2015/01/31/calm-down-completing-our-streets/) - All images are sourced from the City of San Mateo's Sustainable Streets Plan @ http://sustainablestreetssanmateo.com/downloads/ In my first blog post I mentioned that the City of San Mateo is slated to redevelop its streets over the coming years. I feel compelled to write in more detail about these improvements as a cyclist and pedestrian. I - [Announcing the 2015 Award Winners! ](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2015/01/27/2015-award-winners-announced/) - 2015 Award Winners to be honored at a benefit dinner on Thursday, March 26, 2015 Sustainable San Mateo County's 16th Annual Sustainability Awards celebrate two local businesses and a nonprofit community resource center for outstanding commitment to sustainable practices and exemplary conduct with regards to the three "e" principles: Economy, Equity, Environment. Sustainability Award winners - [On gazing upwards & looking forward](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2015/01/09/on-gazing-upwards-looking-forward/) - When we speak about sustainability, we do so with emphasis on long term thinking. There are some things worth preserving - like our natural heritage - that require planning on an inter-generational timescale. One of the quintessential symbols of the Northern Californian natural landscape are redwood trees. Their grandeur and majesty are obvious to anyone - [Unpacking a Cubicle for Xmas](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2015/01/02/unpacking-a-cubicle-for-xmas/) - Hi there. This is my second blog post and first of the new year. One of my tasks as communications intern at SSMC has been to setup a work space. Over the Xmas break I cleaned our cubicle space at the Bovet Professional Offices. I took some before and after photos: There are hundreds of - [A note from Nathan](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2014/12/19/note-from-nathan/) - Hi there, my name is Nathan. I'm a communications intern here at Sustainable San Mateo County. I've been a long time San Mateo resident myself and am currently an undergraduate student studying philosophy and marketing. I've always wanted to work with an environmental advocacy organization. What particularly attracted me to SSMC is the successful fulfillment - [Be an energy- and water-saving HERO with new HERO program](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2014/10/02/hero/) - Currently in Menlo Park, and starting later this year in Foster City, and early 2015 in Redwood City, Woodside, and the unincorporated portions of San Mateo County, local residents will have an opportunity to be energy- and water-saving heroes, thanks to local elected officials in these areas and the HERO Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) - [Feast at the Farm 2014](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2014/07/01/feast-at-the-farm-2014/) - Don't miss this exclusive (and delicious!) chance to support SSMC! Online Registration & Tickets: fatf2014.bpt.me - [2014 Award Recipients](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2014/03/05/2014-award-recipients/) - Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) is proud to announce its 2014 Award recipients. Winners of the 2014 Sustainability Award are: The Grand Boulevard Initiative, Reach and Teach, and the North Shoreview Montessori School. Winner of the 2014 Green Building Award is 5th Avenue Alternative School, Redwood City, with Honorable Mention going to affordable housing at - [Executive Director Adrienne Etherton interview on Peninsula TV](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2013/01/18/executive-director-adrienne-etherton-interview-on-peninsula-tv/) - Sustainable San Mateo County Executive Director Adrienne Etherton spoke with Host Dani Gasparini on One on One on Peninsula Television in January 2013. Look for the last year's 2012 Sustainablility and Green Building Awards videos on Peninsula TV coming soon! - [SSMC receives grant on sustainable food policies from Get Healthy San Mateo](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2013/01/16/ssmc-receives-grant-on-sustainable-food-policies-from-get-healthy-san-mateo/) - Sustainable San Mateo County recently received a year-long grant from County of San Mateo Health System / Health Policy and Planning to collaborate with the City of San Mateo, the San Mateo Cool Cities Team of Sierra Club Loma Prieta Chapter, and the Policy Committee of the San Mateo County Food System Alliance to pass ## Pages - [2025 Homepage](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/) - Empowered Communities are Sustainable Communities Empowered Communities are Sustainable Communities Local Action Makes a Difference SSMC empowers local government and community-based efforts with data, solutions and training to create a sustainable, equitable and climate-resilient San Mateo County now and for future generations. SSMC’s Sustainability Gala & Auction Sept 23 – Join Us!Who We ServeLocal Government - [SSMC Sustainability Gala](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/gala/) - Nominations for 2018 Sustainable San Mateo County Sustainability and Green Building Awards - [Sustainability Dashboard](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-dashboard/) - Data to Prioritize Action The Sustainability Dashboard helps local policymakers and communities focus their efforts and resources to create a healthy, thriving county. CLICK HERE to use the Dashboard The Sustainability Dashboard is a one-stop visual tool and database for policymakers and community leaders to identify where their communities have made progress, where they are - [Calendar of Events](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/newsandevents/calendar/) - Go to Full Calendar Featured SSMC Events2026 Indicators Report LaunchThis year, we are focusing on the urban tree canopy, a topic chosen to address the decreasing tree coverage and the correlated health impacts that are effecting more and more communities across San Mateo County. Register to join us in-person as we unveil the report and - [Webinars](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/webinars/) - SSMC hosts online webinars to bring the community together and discuss sustainability issues. Among the topics we have focused on are clean energy, regional challenges to biodiversity, a plastic-free future, sustainability in the fashion world, air quality for everyone and green jobs. See recent and upcoming webinars below. Sign up for our newsletter here to - [Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report-2/) - About the Indicators Report Sustainable San Mateo County has been tracking sustainability progress in the county since 1997 through its annual Indicators Report. This report provides fact-based information on sustainability indicators and local trends impacting San Mateo County’s economy, environment and social equity. Since its inception, the Indicators Report has been welcomed as an invaluable - [Document Search](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document-search/) - [Document Library](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document-library/) - [Sponsors](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/join/sponsors/) - As a nonprofit organization, Sustainable San Mateo County relies on the generous donations of individuals, businesses, government and foundations for program operations. Our federal tax ID number is 48-1265207. If you would like to learn how you or your business can donate to SSMC, please review our Sponsorship Opportunities and email us at sponsor@sustainablesanmateo.org. We - [Youth Advisory Council](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/youth-advisory-council/) - Youth Are Our Future The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is a unique opportunity for young leaders ages 15-24 to collaborate on environmental and social sustainability solutions and amplify youth voices in local decision-making. Now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 YAC Cohort. CLICK HERE to apply by Monday, September 14 Obtenga más información y presente su - [About SSMC](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/about/) - At SSMC, we believe that the “three E’s” of sustainability, the Economy, the Environment and social Equity, must be in balance in order for communities to be healthy and thrive. Our vision is a sustainable future for everyone in San Mateo County. Our mission is to stimulate action to make San Mateo County more sustainable - [DONATE](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/donate/) - SSMC makes San Mateo County more sustainable. Our expert-based and data-driven analysis, solution playbooks and advocacy keep our city councils and staff informed and accountable and make our communities better places to live now and in the future. Your donation to SSMC makes a significant impact on your local environment and community. As an independent - [Leadership](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/about/leadership/) - Meet Our Leadership Team Our Board of Directors, Advisory Council and staff have many years of experience in managing programs and shaping policies that advance sustainability. Click on each name to learn more. SSMC Board of DirectorsBo Baney , Board MemberBo Baney is a Principal Sustainability Planner for the San Mateo County Transit District, overseeing - [SSMC's Impact](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/ssmc-impact/) - For more than 30 years, Sustainable San Mateo County has been working with local government and community leaders to make San Mateo County more sustainable for everyone. Below, leaders from across the region share how SSMC’s work has made a meaningful difference in their communities. Government and community leaders share their stories - [Sustainability Dashboard](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-dashboard-2025/) - The Sustainability Dashboard empowers local governments, community organizations, residents and media with comprehensive sustainability metrics for each of San Mateo County’s 20 cities and unincorporated areas. Use the dashboard to: Get the latest data on sustainability by city Monitor progress and identify where more work is needed Compare performance across cities Identify trends across time - [Volunteer](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/join/volunteer/) - We are always on the lookout for talented and motivated individuals who want to help maintain and improve our quality of life in San Mateo County. SIGN UP HERE. We’ve listed a few opportunities below, but we can use help in many areas, including social media and database creation, so please contact us if you - [Programs](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/programs/) - SSMC Programs include Indicators Report, Awards, Sustainability Ideas Bank and Advocacy - [Sponsorship Opportunities](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sponsorship-opportunities/) - Welcome! Thanks for your interest in learning more about Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) and how you can benefit by becoming a sponsor. SSMC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has focused on San Mateo County becoming more sustainable since 1992. We are the only organization in the county that tracks the sustainability performance of local - [Sustainability Links](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-resources/sustainability-links/) - Government Resources: C40Cities Green Business Program International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) U. S. EPA U. S. Census Bureau United Nations Environment Programme Nonprofit Resources Acterra B Corporations BAWSCA BayREN Best College’s Greenest Universities Ranking Biomimicry Institute Business for Social Responsibility Campaign for Fossil Free Buildings in Silicon - [Advocacy](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/advocacy/) - Welcome to SSMC's Advocacy Resources Page!Here at Sustainable San Mateo County, we believe in the power of advocacy to drive positive change in our communities. Whether you’re passionate about environmental sustainability, social justice or civic engagement, this page is your gateway to making a difference. On this page, you’ll find: Our previous webinars with former - [Join Us](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/join/) - At Sustainable San Mateo County, we are grateful for the support of volunteers who contribute hundreds of hours to conceive, plan and execute our programs. They also join us in advocating for change. Operating funds come from individuals, businesses, government agencies and foundations. Here’s how you can get involved with SSMC. Join us! VolunteerSSMC volunteers - [Annual Reports](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/about/annual-reports/) - Our Annual Reports provide a snapshot of SSMC’s key accomplishments each year. They highlight some of our positive impacts on the ground; recognize our many volunteers, supporters and sponsors; and inform local community members about our key initiatives and projects. Annual Report FY 2025 Annual Report FY 2024 Download our 2024 Form 990 Annual Report - [2026 Awardees](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026-awardees/) - Congratulations to Our 2026 Award Winners!Since 1999, SSMC with our partners, has recognized pioneers in sustainability. Awards have been given to 188 individuals and organizations that have applied their passions and skills to making our communities, county and world more sustainable. 2026 marks our 27th anniversary, and we are thrilled to recognize the 2026 awardees - [2026 Awards Celebration](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2026-awards-celebration/) - This event has concluded. Look for other events on our Calendar page. Join us for an unforgettable evening as we shine a spotlight on the changemakers of San Mateo County whose local actions are creating the ripples necessary for broad, lasting impact. This isn’t just an awards night; it’s a gathering of the hearts and - [Awards-2026](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/awards-2026/) - Our 27th Annual Awards Celebration Since 1999, SSMC has honored 188 local sustainability champions at our signature Awards Program, an event many in the county consider a “must-attend” highlight of the year. For 2026, we are thrilled to evolve this tradition into a dynamic new format designed to be more accessible and inclusive than ever! - [Sustainability Ideas Bank](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-ideas-bank/) - Over 90 Solutions Successfully Implemented. Helping Cities Act on Their Top Priorities! SSMC’s Sustainability Ideas Bank gives government and community leaders access to successfully implemented solutions to quickly advance their sustainability goals. Find policies and programs relevant to the needs of cities in San Mateo County, all carefully researched and vetted. Use the Ideas Bank - [2025 Indicators Report: Local Food Actions for a Cooler Future](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2025report/) - SSMC Programs include Indicators Report, Awards, Sustainability Ideas Bank and Advocacy - [Previous Indicators Reports (1998 - 2023)](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/previous-indicators-reports-1998-2023/) - Sustainable San Mateo County has been tracking sustainability progress in the county through its annual Indicators Report since 1997. 2025 Key Indicator: Local Food Actions for a Cooler Future 2024 Key Indicator: Equitable Paths to EV Charging 2023 Key Indicator: The Well-Being of Children, Youth & Families in San Mateo County 2022 Key Indicator: Building - [Previous Indicators Reports](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/archive/) - Sustainable San Mateo County has been tracking sustainability progress in the county through its annual Indicators Report since 1997. 2025 Key Indicator: Local Food Actions for a Cooler Future 2024 Key Indicator: Equitable Paths to EV Charging 2023 Key Indicator: The Well-Being of Children, Youth & Families in San Mateo County 2022 Key Indicator: Building - [Sustainable Eating Resources](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/food-resources/) - The Power of Plant Based Eating As reported in our 2025 Indicators Report, “Local Food Actions for a Cooler Future,” food consumption is the third largest contributor to greenhouse gases – after transportation and heating and cooling our homes and buildings. For individuals, cities and organizations who are concerned about climate change, the resources below - [2026 Awards Call For Nominations](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2026-awards-call-for-nominations/) - Applications for 2025 Sustainable San Mateo County Sustainability and Green Building Awards - [Apply to Be a Board Member](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/board-members/) - SSMC is seeking several additional Board Members from San Mateo County to join our Board of Directors. - [Resources](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-resources/) - Sustainability is a shorthand term for viewing the relationship between our actions today and their effect on the future. Living sustainably means that we meet today’s needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Sustainable planning recognizes the interconnections between the environment, economy, and society. A disruption in any one area - [2025 Indicators Report Launch Event](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025-indicators-report-launch-event/) - Local Food Actions for a Cooler Future Sustainable San Mateo County’s 29th Annual Indicators Report was unveiled on October 1, 2025 from 9 – 11 a.m., at a free in-person event at the Sobrato Shoreway Conference Room at 350 Twin Dolphin Drive in Redwood City. Direct and indirect emissions from the food system account for - [Pre Event_2025 Indicators Report: Food-Related Emissions](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2025report_pre-event/) - SSMC Programs include Indicators Report, Awards, Sustainability Ideas Bank and Advocacy - [Previous Award Winners](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/) - Sustainable San Mateo County has honored 188 awardees since our Awards Program began in 1999. Every year SSMC receives dozens of deserving nominations that remind us of the myriad people working to make our region more sustainable. These winners truly represent the best of the best! Previous Award Winners 2025: (click here to read more) - [2025 Awardees](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025-awardees/) - Congratulations to Our 2025 Award Winners!Since 1999, SSMC with our partners, has recognized pioneers in sustainability. Awards have been given to 188 individuals and organizations who applied their passions and skills to making our communities, county and world more sustainable. 2025 marked our 26th anniversary and we were thrilled to recognize the 2025 awardees! Our - [News & Events](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/newsandevents/) - Mollie Carter2026-08-14T12:43:33-05:00The Expanded Sustainability DashboardSustainable San Mateo County Launches Expanded Sustainability Dashboard to Drive Targeted Equity & Climate ActionNew city-level reports for each of the 20 cities and unincorporated [...]Mollie Carter2026-05-28T18:48:38-05:00Meet the 2026 SSMC Students!At Sustainable San Mateo County, we have a long history of empowering youth to build a sustainable future. Since 2019, SSMC - [Awards-2025](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/awards-2025/) - Our 26th Annual Awards Celebration & Auction SSMC has presented 181 awards to local sustainability champions since 1999. Our Awards Program is an inspiring celebration and “must attend” event that pays tribute to those working to make our region truly sustainable. This year’s Awards Celebration and online auction have concluded. Thank you to everyone who - [2024 Home](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021-home/) - A sustainable future for everyone in San Mateo County Imagine a world where the environment, the economy and social equity are in balance, and we’re working together to address the climate crisis and other challenges. That’s the sustainable vision we have for San Mateo County. Join us! OUR PROGRAMSIndicators Report Awards Sustainability Ideas Bank Dashboard - [New Sponsorship Opportunities](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025-sponsorship-opportunities/) - Sponsor SSMC Welcome! Thanks for your interest in learning more about Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) and how you can benefit by becoming a sponsor. SSMC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has focused on San Mateo County becoming more sustainable since 1992. We are the only organization in the county that tracks the sustainability performance - [2025 Awards Celebration](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025-awards-celebration/) - SSMC’s 26th Annual Awards Celebration and Auction! Sustainable San Mateo County’s 2025 Annual Awards and Auction honoring San Mateo County sustainability pioneers was held on April 3 from 5:30 p.m to 8:30 p.m. at College of San Mateo in San Mateo. It was a dazzling evening with gorgeous views, a buzzing reception, and an uplifting - [Newsletter Signup](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/about/newsletter-signup/) - Sign Up for SSMC’s Newsletters First Name Last Name Email (required) *Zip Code Select list(s) to subscribe toSSMC Sustainability NewsletterSustainable Cities Monthly Update Example: Yes, I would like to receive emails from Sustainable San Mateo County. (You can unsubscribe anytime)Constant Contact Use. Please leave this field blank.By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive - [2025 Awards Sponsorship Opportunities](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2025-awards-sponsorship-opportunities/) - Sponsor SSMC If you are interested in sponsoring SSMC’s research, data and advocacy efforts that are creating a more sustainable place for everyone, we’d love to talk with you! Email us at sponsor@sustainablesanmateo.org 2025 Awards Event Sponsorship Support the Sustainability Event of the Year! SSMC has honored 181 sustainability leaders with awards since 1999. The - [2024 Awardees](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024awardees/) - Congratulations to Our 2024 Award Winners!Since 1999, SSMC with our partners, has recognized pioneers in sustainability. Awards have been given to 181 individuals and organizations who applied their passions and skills to making our communities, county and world more sustainable. This year marks our 25th anniversary and we are thrilled to announce the 2024 awardees! - [2024 Awards Celebration](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024awardscelebration/) - Thank you for making SSMC’s 25th Annual Awards Celebration a big success! Sustainable San Mateo County’s 2024 Awards Celebration was held on April 10, and this year marked our 25th year of honoring San Mateo County sustainability pioneers. It was a spectacular evening with a buzzing reception, a dinner with a choice of three entrees, - [2025 Awards Call For Applications](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2025-awards-call-for-applications/) - Applications for 2025 Sustainable San Mateo County Sustainability and Green Building Awards - [2024 Indicators Report Launch Event](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2024-indicators-report-launch-event/) - Equitable Paths to EV Charging Sustainable San Mateo County’s 28th Annual Indicators Report was unveiled on October 24, 2024, at a free in-person event at the Sobrato Shoreway Conference Room at 350 Twin Dolphin Drive in Redwood City. The event featured experts discussing the challenges of meeting EV charging demand both equitably and efficiently. The - [2024 Indicators Report: Equitable Paths to EV Charging](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2024report/) - SSMC Programs include Indicators Report, Awards, Sustainability Ideas Bank and Advocacy - [Donate Archived](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/donate-2023/) - With your help SSMC can: Honor local champions with our annual Sustainability and Green Building Awards Analyze sustainability progress by San Mateo County and local cities with our Sustainability Dashboard and Indicators Report Accelerate sustainability in San Mateo County by expanding the Sustainability Ideas Bank with more solutions for cities and businesses that have been - [2023 Indicators Report Launch Event](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023-indicators-launch/) - The Well-Being of Children, Youth and Families in San Mateo CountyKeynote Speaker: Mike Callagy, County Executive Mike oversees the efficient running of daily county operations and carries out policies established by the Board of Supervisors. As County Executive, he has made ending homelessness a key priority. Mike has more than 37 years of public sector - [Opportunities](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/about/opportunities/) - Opportunities to work for a nonprofit promoting sustainable living in San Mateo County - [2023 Indicators Report: The Well-Being of Children, Youth and Families](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2023report/) - SSMC Programs include Indicators Report, Awards, Sustainability Ideas Bank and Advocacy - [Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report-search/) - About the Indicators Report Sustainable San Mateo County has been tracking sustainability progress in the county since 1997 through its annual Indicators Report. This report provides fact-based information on sustainability indicators and local trends impacting San Mateo County’s economy, environment and social equity. Since its inception, the Indicators Report has been welcomed as a credible - [Awards-2024](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/awards2024/) - About SSMC’s Awards Program SSMC has presented 174 awards to local sustainability champions since 1999. Our Awards Program is an inspiring celebration and “must attend” event that pays tribute to those working to make our region truly sustainable. Our 2024 Awardees were recognized on April 10th at our 25th Annual Awards Celebration and Auction. Read - [Sustainability Dashboard - Archived](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-dashboard-archived/) - Our new Sustainability Dashboard captures performance on 30 sustainability metrics for all 20 cities in San Mateo County and the county’s unincorporated areas in 11 categories: Agriculture and Food, Built Environment, Energy, Climate Action, Ecology and Biodiversity, Economy, Health and Well-Being, Social Equity, Transportation, Waste Management and Water. Data often lags behind the year it’s - [XX_Sponsorship Opportunities](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sponsorship-opportunities_archived/) - Sponsor our 25th Annual 2024 Awards Celebration Sustainable San Mateo County has honored 174 sustainability leaders with awards since 1999. We invite you to join us in sponsoring our awards program. You will benefit from being associated with many partners who recognize SSMC as a trusted source of sustainability information and solutions. To sponsor SSMC, - [2023 Awardees](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2023awardees/) - Congratulations to Our 2023 Award Winners!Sustainability Awards: Diane Bailey, Tom Kabat, Redwood High School & SEI Green Building Award: Burlingame Community Center Green Building Honorable Mentions: Atherton Library & Gilead Sciences’ Wellbeing Center Sustainability Youth Commendation: Alex Wagonfeld Recipients of the 3rd Annual All-Electric Awards, presented by Peninsula Clean Energy, will also be honored during our - [2023 Call For Nominations](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2023-call-for-nominations/) - Nominations for 2018 Sustainable San Mateo County Sustainability and Green Building Awards - [2022 Indicators Report: Building Electrification in San Mateo County](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2022-indicators-report-building-electrification-in-sanmateo-county/) - SSMC Programs include Indicators Report, Awards, Sustainability Ideas Bank and Advocacy - [Contact Us](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/about/contact-us/) - Contact SSMC 3182 Campus Drive #153, San Mateo, CA 94403 Phone: 650-918-1992 Email: info@sustainablesanmateo.org - [Sustainability Ideas Bank archive](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-ideas-bank-archive/) - SSMC’s Sustainability Ideas Bank advances sustainability by sharing solutions from cities and businesses that have proven successful elsewhere. Most ideas include contact information to allow leaders to talk directly with others who have implemented these solutions, along with links to staff reports, ordinances, websites and other resources. The Sustainability Ideas Bank is designed to make - [2022 Awardees](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022-awardees/) - Congratulations to Our 2022 Award Winners!Sustainability Awards: Each Green Corner, Kalimah Salahuddin and Seamless Bay Area Ruth Peterson Award: Robert Whitehair Green Building Award: Marshall Medical Offices on Kaiser Permanente’s Redwood City campus These awardees were honored at our 23rd Annual Awards Celebration on May 11, along with recipients of the Second Annual All-Electric Awards, - [Background](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/about/background/) - Opportunities to work for a non-profit promoting sustainable living in San Mateo County - [Publications](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/publications/) - Annual Reports2021 Annual Report Our Annual Reports provide a snapshot of SSMC’s key accomplishments each year. They highlight some of our positive impacts on the ground; recognize our many volunteers, supporters and sponsors; and inform local community members about our key initiatives and projects. Read the PDF (373 KB) 2020 Annual Report Read the PDF - [2018 Key Indicator: Climate Change Action](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/climate-change-action/) - This report identifies the key drivers of local greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, emergent practices that remove emissions from the air, plans to scale up and fund solutions, and preparations for changes in temperature and weather patterns. Measuring and evaluating the effectiveness of these solutions will guide further action to remove excess carbon from the atmosphere - [2017 Key Indicator: Cost of Living](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/key-indicator-cost-of-living/) - We chose the cost of living as our Key Indicator in 2017 for the sweeping impacts on our neighborhoods, health, environment, and culture. It also highlights the interconnections between San Mateo County and the broader region, which is becoming increasingly urban. Shifting Economic Equity Housing and Transportation Impacts on Community Health Impacts on Child Care - [2016 Key Indicator: Food Systems](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-food-systems/) - Food systems touch every aspect of our lives. Food is a vital part of our economy, from growing to distribution to service. Access to fresh food and nutrition education is an important health issue. Food production, distribution, and waste have large impacts on our environment. Access to Healthy Food and Food Waste Food Production Local - [2015 Key Indicator: Water](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-water/) - Our local economy, environment, and our personal quality of life depend upon a safe, reliable, and efficient water system. Water Supply and Demand Background, Supply and Demand, City Updates Water QualityDrinking Water, Bay and Ocean Water, Wastewater Water Energy Nexus Energy Intensity of Water, Water used to Produce Energy Sea Level Rise and Flooding Projections, - [Partnerships](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/join/partnerships/) - Sustainable San Mateo County welcomes partnerships with other, similarly minded organizations on programs, initiatives and/or policies that align with our mission. Together, we are stronger! Let’s amplify our impact and make a real difference on the ground. Some of our partnerships include: FFBSV: SSMC was one of the first founding members of the Campaign for - [2022 Indicators Report Launch Event](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022-indicators-report-launch-event/) - Building Electrification in San Mateo County, IR 2022 Launch Event Sustainable San Mateo County’s 26th annual Indicators Report was unveiled November 10 at a free in-person event hosted by Genentech. This year, we took a deep dive into examining San Mateo County’s progress on building electrification, with a special look at the existing building stock. - [2022 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022-awards/) - Congratulations to Our 2022 Award Winners!Sustainability Awards: Each Green Corner, Kamilah Salahuddin, Seamless Bay Area Ruth Peterson Award: Robert Whitehair Green Building Award: Marshall Medical Offices on Kaiser Permanente’s Redwood City campus Learn more about SSMC’s award winners here. Read about Peninsula Clean Energy’s 2022 All-Electric Leader awardees, who were also recognized at our Awards - [2022 Awards Celebration](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2022-awards-celebration/) - Thank You for Attending Our Awards Celebration We extend our appreciation to everyone who joined us on May 11 to celebrate the 2022 winners of the Sustainability Awards, Ruth Peterson Award and the Green Building Award at our 23rd Annual Awards Celebration. Peninsula Clean Energy also honored the winners of the 2nd Annual All-Electric Awards - [2021 Celebration](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021celebration/) - Celebrate This Year’s Sustainability ChampionsWe invite you to join us in celebrating the 2021 winners of the Sustainability Awards, Ruth Peterson Award and the Green Building Award at our 22nd Annual Awards Celebration on Friday, May 14, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. In addition, Peninsula Clean Energy will announce the winners of the first-ever All-Electric - [Climate and Environment Forum](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/climate-and-environment-forum/) - In the California primary election to be held on June 7, several candidates will be running for the Congressional seat currently held by Jackie Speier, who is retiring at the end of her current term. The San Mateo County chapter of the Citizens’ Climate Lobby invites you to attend a forum in which these candidates - [Calendar](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/newsandevents/sustainable-events-corner/) - Sustainable San Mateo County’s calendar is the one-stop resource base for all things sustainable in San Mateo County. Use this form to suggest an event for the calendar. Please allow up to 2 business days for approval. * indicates required field Name:* Email:* Website Name of Event* Day/Time of Event* City/Location of Event* One-time/Ongoing Event* - [Sustainable San Mateo County Announces 2022 Award Recipients](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainable-san-mateo-county-announces-2022-award-recipients/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Christine Kohl-Zaugg, christine@sustainablesanmateo.org, 650-918-1992 Or Terry Nagel, terry@sustainablesanmateo.org, 650-678-7082 Sustainable San Mateo County Announces 2020 Award Recipients Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) will honor San Mateo County Supervisor Dave Pine, the San Mateo County Office of Education’s Environmental Literacy and Sustainability Initiative, the Campaign for Fossil Free Buildings in Silicon Valley - [2022 Call For Nominations](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2022-call-for-nominations/) - Nominations for 2018 Sustainable San Mateo County Sustainability and Green Building Awards - [Impact of Climate Change on Housing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2021-key-indicator-report/impact-of-climate-change-on-housing/) - Climate change impacts every aspect of life, and the housing crisis is no exception. In order to solve the housing crisis and make sure homes are resilient, climate change needs to be taken into consideration. Wildfires Due to climate change, precipitation will likely decrease and higher temperatures will increase, elevating the chances of wildfires and - [2021 Indicators Report Launch](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021-indicators-report-launch/) - 2021 Indicators Report Focuses on Equitable HousingAt the launch of our 25th annual Indicators Report on October 19, speakers outlined the challenges facing the need for more affordable, equitable housing as well as some proven solutions that are making it happen. Panelists were: Rick Bonilla, Deputy Mayor, San Mateo Diana Reddy, Council Member, Redwood City - [Housing Analysis](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2021-key-indicator-report/housing-analysis/) - Jobs-to-Housing Balance The jobs-to-housing balance metric is a ratio between the number of jobs and the number of housing units in a given geographical area. It is a measure of community health related to housing availability. A jobs-to-housing balance ratio of 1.5 means there are six jobs for every four households. According to the Building - [2021 Indicators Report: Equitable Housing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2021-key-indicator-report/) - SSMC Programs include Indicators Report, Awards, Sustainability Ideas Bank and Advocacy - [Looking Ahead](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2021-key-indicator-report/looking-ahead/) - A New Approach There are powerful forces in San Mateo County opposed to affordable housing. How can a city move the needle when residents routinely oppose any housing development and lobbyists pressure them to maintain the status quo? “The No. 1 issue is political will,” said Diana Reddy, a longtime affordable housing advocate who was - [Leading Forces](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2021-key-indicator-report/leading-forces/) - Key trends that shape the jobs-housing balance and exacerbate accessibility to housing and transportation provide insights into finding sustainable solutions for the future. The following factors are playing an important role in how these challenges have been evolving and will likely continue to evolve and shift in the future. School Quality School quality has played - [Historical Background](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2021-key-indicator-report/historical-background/) - History has value, but presenting the historical perspective of the current housing crisis in San Mateo County is no routine matter. Understanding how the San Mateo County housing crisis has evolved may be confrontive and difficult to accept. However, a failure to understand that history will result in a lost opportunity to move forward and - [Conclusion and Acknowledgments](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2021-key-indicator-report/conclusion-and-acknowledgments/) - Conclusion The current housing crisis did not happen overnight. It is rooted in 250 years of shameful local practices, harmful actions and outright racial discrimination. Sadly, profit and resistance from homeowners opposed to change have too often been more important than social equity. It’s time to focus our attention on making more affordable housing available - [2020 Key Indicator](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2020-key-indicator-2/) - SSMC Programs include Indicators Report, Awards, Sustainability Ideas Bank and Advocacy - [Meet our 2021 Summer College Interns](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/meet-our-2021-summer-college-interns/) - Click on the pdf here to learn more about our college interns. - [2021 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2021awards/) - Congratulations to Our 2021 Award Winners!Sustainability Awards San Mateo Deputy Mayor Rick Bonilla has been committed to sustainability since volunteering with the first Sierra Club High School Chapter in the nation at Crestmoor High in San Bruno. Rick has devoted much of his professional life to being a union organizer, helping carpenters earn a living - [Pathways](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-resources/pathways/) - Pathways to Sustainable CommunitiesPathways to Sustainable Communities was initiated in the Spring of 2016 with the goal to draw lessons from 20 years of research via SSMC’s flagship annual Indicators Report program and its other key sustainability initiatives. This report highlights data and analysis of trends and transition points for the County of San Mateo, - [Green at Home Tips](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-resources/green-at-home/) - Earth Day is Everyday! Practical Tips on what YOU can do at homeSSMC’s Vice Chair, Robert Whitehair, has compiled a series of no and low costs actions that you can take now to create a positive difference in your home’s energy use, air quality and comfort – while helping the environment (and in some cases, - [Home](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/) - Promoting sustainability in San Mateo County since 1992 - [2012 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2012-indicators-report/) - Sustainable San Mateo County is proud to present the 2012 Indicators for a Sustainable San Mateo County report. The 16th edition features a focus on "Community Health," 43 indicators on the health of our County's economy, environment and social equity; and updates from all the cities, County and the Community College District on their sustainability - [Nomination Criteria](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/nomination-criteria/) - Nominations for 2018 Sustainable San Mateo County Sustainability and Green Building Awards - [Waste to Energy and Waste Management](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2020-key-indicator/waste-to-energy-and-waste-management/) - One important aspect of sustainability involves the life cycle of materials and energy extracted, consumed, transformed and disposed of in the functioning of urban societies. Modern-day waste management should look at waste as a valuable resource, rather than simply bury or burn it. One promising technique is waste-to-energy (WTE) conversion, which offers an efficient means - [Energy and Land use](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2020-key-indicator/energy-and-land-use/) - Many renewable energy technologies, such as wind and solar farms, require enormous amounts of land if deployed at scale, putting them in competition with other land uses, including agriculture. Critical factors in siting mega-solar plants are access to sunlight, solar irradiation, available land, market demand, local expertise, land prices and sufficient transmission infrastructure. Factors that - [Renewable Energy Financing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2020-key-indicator/renewable-energy-financing/) - San Mateo County is committed to providing financial incentives and rebates to residents who are looking to purchase renewable energy systems and other energy-efficiency upgrades. Available in San Mateo County are programs such as Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE), a financing mechanism that allows homeowners to install energy efficiency, water efficiency or clean energy projects - [Transportation and Clean Energy](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2020-key-indicator-2/transportation-and-clean-energy/) - COVID-19’s Impact on the Transportation and Energy Consumption Sector Traffic on Highway 101 decreased dramatically during the pandemic. Credit: Don Nolte Many state and regional economies had to shut down beginning in February and March of 2020 to prevent the spread of COVID-19. According to the Institute for Regional Studies in Silicon Valley, annual GHG - [Water Use and Water Conservation](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2020-key-indicator/water-use-and-water-conservation/) - Water-Energy Nexus and Importance of Storage Water use and energy use are inextricably related. The extraction, treatment, distribution and use of water, and the collection and treatment of wastewater, require a significant amount of energy. Conversely, hydroelectric and thermometric power generation require large amounts of water. Water can be used to store energy economically. For - [Improving Building Efficiency](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2020-key-indicator/improving-building-efficiency/) - California is focused on reducing GHG sources and emissions from all of its industries to address climate change. Buildings are a major GHG contributor because of the energy they use to keep interiors at a comfortable temperature, the production and transportation energy embodied in their building materials, and the off-gassing of materials and building waste - [Community Education and Outreach Efforts on Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2020-key-indicator-2/community-education-and-outreach-efforts-on-renewable-energy-and-energy-efficiency/) - San Mateo County Office of Education’s Environmental Literacy and Sustainability Initiative The San Mateo County Office of Education (SMCOE) launched its Environmental Literacy and Sustainability Initiative at the start of the 2017-18 school year. The initiative’s vision is for the school communities and leaders to prioritize sustainability integration and environmental literacy for all students. The - [2020 Awardees](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2020-awardees/) - Nominations for 2018 Sustainable San Mateo County Sustainability and Green Building Awards - [About Sustainability](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-water/resources/about_sustainability/) - Opportunities to work for a non-profit promoting sustainable living in San Mateo County - [2019 Key Indicator](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2019-key-indicator/) - SSMC Programs include Indicators Report, Awards, Sustainability Ideas Bank and Advocacy - [2017 Indicators Launch & Lunch](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2017-launch/) - Child Care, Education, and Community Health Wednesday, November 8, 2017, 11:30 am - 1:30 pm San Mateo Public Library - Oak Room 55 West 3rd Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94402 Join us and hear from local experts on child care, education, and healthcare, as we explore how our community is managing the high cost of - [2018 Indicators Report Launch Event](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2018-launch/) - Thursday, November 1st, 11:30 am - 2:00 pm Oracle Conference Center 350 Oracle Parkway, Redwood Shores, CA 94065 Locals are making an impact on climate change through thoughtful design and management of the natural and built environment. Hear from experts on cutting-edge building management techniques, regenerative farming and ranching practices, and forward thinking transportation goals. - [Sustainability Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/awards/sustainability-awards/) - Nominations for the 2019 Sustainable San Mateo County Sustainability Awards - [Sponsors](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/httpwww-sustainablesanmateo-org20181116201819-sponsorship-opportunities/) - Sponsor Sustainable San Mateo County’s 22nd Annual Awards Program during the spring of 2021 and our activities throughout the year! Each year SSMC honors sustainability leaders who have made significant progress in protecting our people and planet through their work with local organizations, businesses and government. Historically, more than 300 attendees have joined our Awards - [Archives](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/indicator-archives/) - Opportunities to work for a non-profit promoting sustainable living in San Mateo County - [2020 Key Indicator](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2020-key-indicator/) - SSMC Programs include Indicators Report, Awards, Sustainability Ideas Bank and Advocacy - [2020 Green Building Award](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/awards/green-building-awards/) - Nominations for the 2019 Sustainable San Mateo County and American Institute of Architects Green Building Awards - [Reach Code Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/awards/reach-awards/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Christine Kohl-Zaugg, 650-918-1992, christine@sustainablesanmateo.org; or Terry Nagel, 650-678-7082 or terrynagel@gmail.com 5 Local Jurisdictions to Be Honored for Reach Codes SAN MATEO, February 25, 2020 – Sustainable San Mateo County announced today that it will recognize the Cities of Brisbane, Menlo Park, Pacifica and San Mateo, as well as the County of - [2018 Indicators Report: Climate Change Action](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/2018-indicators-report-climate-change-action/) - Download the 2018 Indicators Report PDF here Download the 2018 Summary Report Across the world, people are acting on climate change. Resiliency leaders envision a renewed connection between people and our habitat, transforming lifestyles and business practices to regenerate natural systems. Aligning action with values that prioritize community health strengthens bonds and elevates those most - [Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report-landing/) - About the Indicators Report Indicators for a Sustainable San Mateo County provides fact-based information on local trends impacting our economy, environment, and society. Propelled by the philosophy “what gets measured, gets managed,” the Report presents indicators that raise awareness of sustainability in the county and improve our ability to make sound decisions for the benefit - [Pesticide Use](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/pesticide-use/) - Why Is This Important? Widespread use of toxic pesticides can damage human health and the environment. Toxic pesticides are nerve toxins, and can cause cancer, pose reproductive hazards, disrupt hormone function, and pollute the air and water. Pesticides that are applied to homes, gardens, buildings, agriculture, rights of way, and other areas can run off - [Land Use](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/land-use/) - Why Is This Important? Land use decisions have far-reaching effects on the long-term sustainability of a community, impacting the location of new housing, businesses, schools, and parks. Land use policies influence everything from the diversity of the local economy to how much residents drive and how healthy their diet is. With many towns and cities - [Economy: Economic Development and Business Innovation](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/economy/innovation/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Scientific and technological innovation is the process of continuous improvement, renewal, and change to create more effective processes, treatments, goods, or services. It is a key catalyst for prosperity and human well-being. Through innovation, new ideas like the personal computer, cell phone, drugs to fight cancer, and photovoltaic panels get - [Environment: Natural Resources](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/environment/natural-resources/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Natural resources are those resources that exist in the environment -water, air, soil, flora, and fauna. While some of these resources, such as the sun, air, and wind, are considered renewable, others, including fossil fuels and minerals, are considered non-renewable because their replenishment rate is vastly slower than the current - [Agriculture and the Environment](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-food-systems/agriculture-and-the-environment/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Agricultural land is a vital resource for the provision of sustenance to humans and habitat for wildlife. Sustainable management practices are essential for the effective use of working lands, which support ecosystems on a local and global level. On a global level, agriculture is a large contributor to greenhouse gas - [Environment: Land Use](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/environment/land-use/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Land use decisions have far-reaching effects on the long-term sustainability of a community, impacting the location of new housing, businesses, schools, and parks. Land use policies influence everything from the diversity of the local economy to how much residents drive and how healthy their diet is. With many towns and - [Economy: Employment](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/economy/employment/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Job growth expands a community's economy, while employment spread across industries reduces the impacts of a recession. A growing economy with high employment rates leads to increased business investment and generates revenue for local and state governments to fund public services. Rising wages raise the standard of living for workers, - [Water, Air & Waste](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/water-air-waste/) - Water Supply and Demand ♦ Bay and Ocean Water Quality ♦ Drought Monitor ♦ Air Quality ♦ Solid Waste ♦ Food Waste Sustainability Goals Natural resources are managed efficiently to minimize environmental degradation, prevent scarcity, and to ensure that resources are available for future generations. Water supply and demand are in balance, and adequate infrastructure - [Spring 2016 Environment: Natural Resources](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/spring-2016-environment-natural-resources/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Natural resources are those resources that exist in the environment -water, air, soil, flora, and fauna. While some of these resources, such as the sun, air, and wind, are considered renewable, others, including fossil fuels and minerals, are considered non-renewable because their replenishment rate is vastly slower than the current - [Land, Agriculture & Animals](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/land-agriculture-animals/) - Land Cover ♦ Parks and Open Space ♦ Endangered Species ♦ Agriculture Production and Forestry ♦ Organic Farms ♦ Pesticides ♦ Commercial Fish Catch Sustainability Goals Land use policies accommodate growth while protecting public and ecological health by directing development to areas that provide easy access to services, jobs, and transit. Parks and open space - [Economic Development](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/economic-development/) - Jobs ♦ Business Size ♦ Green Business ♦ Location Quotient ♦ Total Taxable Sales ♦ Venture Capital ♦ Skilled Workforce Sustainability Goals Employment is spread across industries, and the availability of jobs and workers with matching skills is in balance. Jobs pay at least a living wage, meaning that workers earn the minimum income needed - [Agriculture](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/agriculture/) - Why Is This Important? Farmland"or working landscapes"can provide economic, environmental, and quality of life benefits. Locally grown food maintains its freshness and nutritional value, contributes to the county's food security, and can also reduce transportation-related air pollution and costs. Controlled grazing helps minimize soil erosion and control invasive weeds. Organic farming practices are especially important - [Food Production](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-food-systems/food-production/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Agricultural land contributes to the County economy, and preserves cultural heritage and scenic beauty while reducing urban sprawl and habitat encroachment. San Mateo County's agricultural legacy is highly visible along the coast, from Pescadero to Pacifica. Brussels sprouts, flowers, and nursery crops have contributed a large portion of the county's - [2017 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2017-awards/) - Check out the 2017 Event Photos on Facebook! (note: click the awardees name to read about their contributions) Ruth Peterson Award: BETH BHATNAGAR [smc-hide] Beth Bhatnagar is a founding member of Sustainable San Mateo County, and served on the board of directors for over 10 years, including as Secretary for much of that time. As - [2014 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2014-awards/) - Thursday April 3, 2014 • College of San Mateo Keynote presentation: Dr. Gro Harlem Brundtland, international leader in sustainable development, Deputy Chair of the Elders, and Former Prime Minister of Norway (bio on wikipedia); Mimi and Peter E. Haas Distinguished Visitor, Haas Center for Public Service, Stanford University Featured Auctioneer: State Senator Jerry Hill Guest - [2011 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2011-indicators-report/) - Sustainable San Mateo County is proud to present the 2011 Indicators for a Sustainable San Mateo County report. The 15th edition features a focus on "Jobs", 30 indicators on the health of our County's economy, environment and social equity; and updates from all the cities, County and the Community College District on their sustainability efforts - [Cities, Towns, and the County](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/cities/) - While our sustainability challenges are global in scale, local governments, with the support of residents, businesses and nonprofit organizations, play a key role in tackling these issues and in carrying out laws made at the federal and state levels. The actions of local governments impact everything from land use patterns and resource management to climate - [Equity](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/equity/) - A socially equitable community provides all members fair access to a good education, a safe neighborhood, and services that enable even the least affluent to meet their basic needs. Community Cohesion and Safety Community Health Education Equity by the Numbers 753,123: Total population in San Mateo County in 2015. 288,592: Number of San Mateo County - [We are hiring! Part-time Program Manager for the Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/we-are-hiring/) - Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) - PROGRAM MANAGER (Independent Contractor Position) Job Description: Established in 1992, Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) is a nonprofit dedicated to the long-term health of our county's economy, environment and social equity by educating people about sustainability and empowering them to take action to implement sustainability measures, practices and projects. - [Mills High School 2014 Indicator Projects](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/millshs2014-projects/) - Each year, Sustainable San Mateo County works with a select group of Mills High School students to teach them about sustainability indicators. This year, the students researched Income Inequality, the 2013 Key Indicator. After learning about important trends at the national, state, and local level, the students chose research projects to further explore the topic. - [Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/) - Living sustainably means that we meet today's needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Sustainable, long-term planning balances a vibrant economy, a socially equitable community, and a healthy environment. About the Indicators Report Indicators for a Sustainable San Mateo County provides fact-based information on local trends impacting our economy, environment, - [About the Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/) - [smc-hide] Indicators for a Sustainable San Mateo County is published annually to provide fact-based information on local trends impacting our economy, environment, and society. Propelled by the philosophy "what gets measured, gets managed," the Report presents indicators that raise awareness of sustainability in the county and improve our ability to make sound decisions for the - [Water Energy Nexus](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-water/water-energy-nexus-2/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Water and energy use are interrelated. Energy is needed to extract, clean, pressurize, and transport water, as well as heat or cool it for commercial and residential use. Water or steam is used to propel turbines that produce hydropower and thermoelectric power. It is also a vital element of nuclear - [Appendix](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/other/appendix/) - 2016 Key Indicator: Food Systems Agriculture and the Environment 100 Ponds Project. San Mateo County Resource Conservation District. http://www.sanmateorcd.org/project/100-ponds/ Assessing the Total Impact of TomKat Ranch. Research and Methodologies. November 2015. http://www.tomkatranch.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/TomKat-Total-Impact_Methodology_vPLAIN-1.pdf Birds of Conservation Concern. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. https://www.fws.gov/birds/management/managed-species/birds-of-conservation-concern.php Blueprint for a California Program on Climate and Agriculture. California Climate and Agriculture - [Water Supply and Demand](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/water-supply-and-demand/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Over the past decade, California residents have experienced two droughts: one from 2007-2009 and another beginning in 2012 through present day. The current California drought is one of the worst since recordkeeping began, and 2013 was the driest year in recorded history. Rainfall has declined dramatically, causing most of the - [Transportation](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/transportation/) - Commute ♦ Vehicle Miles Traveled Sustainability Goals Workers are able to conveniently reach their jobs via a variety of low-carbon transportation choices, including public transit, walking, biking, and ride-sharing. Commute San Mateo County's central location between two major employment hubs and a lack of affordable housing on the peninsula requires cross-county commuting. On a given - [A Look Ahead: Current and Future Transportation Trends](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/future-transportation-trends/) - Jump to: Shared Mobility • Personal Mobility • Trends in Mass Transit Shared Mobility The convergence of new technology and social networking that created the sharing economy is shaping major changes in transportation. Shared Mobility, where rides, cars, and bikes are shared among users, is helping more Americans lead "car-light" or "car-free" lifestyles. Carsharing Carsharing - [Case Studies](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/copy-case-studies-main-draft/) - Electrification of CalTrain, Bullet Train (High Speed Rail) * Use of Green Infrastructure * Multi-modal transport that bring additional benefits of health and environment - Complete streets * Blue Planet * CAL FIRE’s Strategic Plan to Limit Wildfire Damage * San Francisco Airport’s Zero Net Energy Goal * Sanger and Chowchilla: Models for Clean Energy Financing - [Carbon Dioxide Emissions](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/carbon-dioxide-emissions/) - Why Is This Important? Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a greenhouse gas linked to climate change. CO2 enters the atmosphere through nature’s carbon cycle and human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. Human activities are the main driver of increased CO2 in the earth’s atmosphere. They have led to global atmospheric concentrations - [Transportation: Vehicle Travel & Public Transit](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/transportation-vehicle-travel-public-transit/) - Why Is This Important? Transportation has a significant impact on the economy, environment, and individual quality of life. Traffic congestion causes costly delays resulting in lost productivity, less time with families, wasted resources, and stress. Vehicles pollute the air and water and are a significant contributor of greenhouse gas emissions. With housing increasingly unaffordable in - [Transportation: Gasoline Use & Fuel Efficiency](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/transportation-gasoline-use-fuel-efficiency/) - Why Is This Important? Motor vehicles are the largest source of pollution in San Mateo County, impacting both air and water quality. The transportation sector accounts for over half of the county’s total carbon dioxide emissions, a greenhouse gas linked to climate change. High gasoline costs can have a major impact on household spending as - [Cost of Housing and Transportation](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/key-indicator-cost-of-living/cost-of-housing-and-transportation/) - Housing and Transportation Connection ♦ Housing Costs ♦ Eviction And Displacement ♦ County Housing Programs ♦ Transportation Costs Housing and Transportation Connection Housing costs and traffic congestion are two of the biggest problems facing people in the Bay Area, prompting more residents to consider relocation, according to a poll conducted by the Bay Area Council. - [Transportation](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/copy-transportation/) - Transportation has significant impact on GHG emissions and air quality. Laying out infrastructure and incentives for renewable energy and energy efficiency and transitioning to clean energy can help mitigate GHG emissions. In 2012, the transportation sector contributed to about 61 percent of total GHG emissions in SMC.[1] Solo driving accounts for most of the GHG - [Winter 2014 Transportation Indicators](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/winter14-transportation/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Our local economy, environment, and our personal quality of life depend upon a safe, reliable, and efficient transportation system. On a given work day, approximately 527,000 workers commute into, out of, and within San Mateo County, placing tremendous stress on our aging transportation infrastructure. Approximately three out of four county - [Spring 2014 Transportation Indicators](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/spring14-transportation/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Over the last 30 years, childhood obesity in the U.S. has increased three-fold, and in 2013, nearly one in three American adults was obese. The obesity epidemic is the greatest public health issue in the country, threatening to overturn decades of gains in life expectancy. Obesity costs our country $150 - [Mapping Transportation](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/mapping-transportation/) - Areas within 1/4 mile of Public Transit • Bike Routes • Population Density • Elderly Population • Median Household Income • Terrain Slope • Spatial Segregation See also: Interactive Transportation Maps Areas within 1/4 mile of Public Transit Bike Routes Population Density Elderly Population Median Household Income Terrain Slope Spatial Segregation - [Major Transportation Initiatives](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/major-transportation-initiatives/) - (click link to jump to section) • Plan Bay Area • SamTrans New Service Plan • El Camino Real Bus Rapid Transit • Caltrain Modernization • Transbay Transit Center and Caltrain Downtown Extension Plan Bay Area Plan Bay Area is a comprehensive initiative linking our region's transportation, housing, and employment needs over the next 25 - [Key Indicator: Transportation](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/) - [hupso_hide] Our local economy, environment, and our personal quality of life depend upon a safe, reliable, and efficient transportation system. Transportation History Stagecoach, Railroad, Streetcar, and Auto Eras Winter 2014 Transportation Indicators Spring 2014 Transportation Indicators A Look Into the Future Shared Mobility, Personal Mobility, Trends in Mass Transit Major Initiatives Plan Bay Area, Caltrain - [Interactive Transportation Maps](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/mapping-transportation-interactive/) - Areas within 1/4 mile of Public Transit • Bike Routes • Population Density • Elderly Population • Median Household Income See Mapping Transportation for additional maps. Areas within 1/4 mile of Public Transit Experts generally conclude that typical transit riders will walk a distance up to a quarter-mile to transit. Source: MTC & Caltrans - [2015 Indicators Launch Events](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/2015-launch-events/) - Looking for the Indicators Report? Start here. Or jump directly to the Key Indicator: Water. View all the event videos on our YouTube Channel. Quick links: Spring • Summer • Fall Water Summit Spring 2015 The Spring 2015 Indicators Launch and Lunch was held on Thursday April 30, 2015 at the Sobrato Center - Redwood - [Environment: Climate and Energy](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/environment/climate-and-energy/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Increased levels of greenhouse gases (GHG) are the primary cause of man-made climate change. While some GHGs enter the atmosphere through nature's carbon cycle, an increasing share now comes from human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. Earth's average temperature has increased 1.4 º Fahrenheit over - [Indicators Topics](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/indicators-topics/) - This will be introductory copy to introduce the content. It is intended to be read but have no meaning. As a simulation of actual copy, using ordinary words with normal letter frequencies, it cannot deceive eye or brain. Crime 2018, 2017 Renewable Energy/Energy Use 2019 Transportation 2019, 2017 - [Advisory Council](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/about/advisors/) - The Sustainable San Mateo County Advisory Council provides guidance and expertise to Sustainable San Mateo County's Board of Directors and Staff. David Hinckle David Hinckle was born and raised in Los Angeles, and moved to the Bay Area in 1970. In 1971 he opened Earthbeam Natural Foods in Burlingame, and retired in April, 2017. He - [COVID-19 Resources](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/covid-19-resources/) - This page is dedicated to COVID-19 responses and actions. We'll keep updating it and adding links to relevant key sites. Contact us at: advocate@sustainablesanmateo.org with "COVID-19" in the subject line if you'd like us to consider linking to your website. General updates and County information - check these official sites first: NEWS - CARES Act - [Request For Proposals (RFP) for Website Redesign](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/request-for-proposals-rfp-for-website-redesign/) - REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR SSMC WEBSITE REDESIGN Proposals due: March 15, 2020 SEND TO: Christine Kohl-Zaugg Executive Director 2955 Campus Drive, #110 San Mateo, CA 94403 Or email at: christine@sustainablesanmateo.org Office: 650-918-1992 Sustainable San Mateo County is a well-respected, local nonprofit, dedicated to making San Mateo County more sustainable. We believe sustainable communities need - [Sustainable San Mateo County Announces 2020 Award Recipients](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainable-san-mateo-county-announces-2020-award-recipients/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Christine Kohl-Zaugg, christine@sustainablesanmateo.org, 650-918-1992 Or Terry Nagel, terry@sustainablesanmateo.org, 650-678-7082 Sustainable San Mateo County Announces 2020 Award Recipients Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) will honor San Mateo County Supervisor Dave Pine, the San Mateo County Office of Education’s Environmental Literacy and Sustainability Initiative, the Campaign for Fossil Free Buildings in Silicon Valley - [2019 Green Building Award Application](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2019-green-building-award-application/) - Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) and the American Institute of Architects of San Mateo County Chapter (AIASMC) have awarded the 17th Annual Green Building Award to the HALF MOON BAY LIBRARY on April 4, 2019. Congratulations! Nominations for the 2020 Green Building Awards are now open. Award recipients will be honored at the 2020 Sustainability - [2019 Awards Dinner Advertising Opportunity](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2019-awards-dinner-advertising-opportunity/) - [Health](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/health/) - Access to Healthcare ? Chronic Disease ? Causes of Death ? Prenatal and Maternal Care ? Healthy Behaviors and Risk Factors ? Food Environment Sustainability Goals All community members have access to affordable, high-quality medical care. Integrated approaches involving prevention and disease management lead to lower disease incidence, improved health outcomes, and reduced hospitalizations. Walkability, - [Energy](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/energy/) - Energy Use ? Energy Supply ? Green Buildings Sustainability Goals Energy is produced from renewable and greenhouse gas-neutral sources and is used efficiently. New buildings are constructed to the highest green standards, and older buildings are retrofitted to ensure efficient energy use. While working to mitigate GHG emissions, communities simultaneously implement adaptation measures, such as - [References](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/copy-references/) - https://www.nap.edu/read/13389/chapter/5 https://www.insurancejournal.com/news/national/2018/06/21/493040.htm http://data.pointblue.org/apps/ocof/cms/index.php?page=flood-map https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hiq7BBKhKKqR5ANyVw87yK2Yd8rJzZKUF3NNfx_4GNk/edit https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/sea-level-rise-will-threaten-thousands-of-california-homes/ https://www.smcsustainability.org/climate-ready https://www.acterra.org/programs https://seachangesmc.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/2018-03-12_SLR_VA_Report_2.2018_WEB_FINAL.pdf https://resilientsanmateo.org/ https://baykeeper.org/shoreview/economic-loss.html https://www.almanacnews.com/news/2018/04/14/sea-level-rise-could-cost-area-billions-countywide-study-finds https://www.smcsustainability.org/download/energy-water/groundwater/Economic-and-Social-Costs-of-Sea-Level-Rise-in-San-Mateo-County.pdf https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/10/081007073928.htm https://www.apha.org/~/media/files/pdf/topics/climate/asthma_allergies.ashx https://www.seventhgeneration.com/blog/climate-health-matters-allergies-asthma-rates-risehttps://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-six-deaths-heat-wave-bay-area-20170908-story.html https://www.pnas.org/content/116/8/3118 https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/CDPH%20Document%20Library/CHSP-SANMATEO.pdf https://www.lung.org/our-initiatives/healthy-air/sota/key-findings/ https://www.calhealthreport.org/2018/08/28/already-vulnerable-populations-face-greater-risks-climate-change-report-finds/ https://www.energy.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2019-07/Reg%20Report-%20SUM-CCCA4-2018-005%20SanFranciscoBayArea.pdf California Energy Commission, Energy Assessments Division 2017 https://ww2.energy.ca.gov/2017_energypolicy/documents/ (Final 2017 Integrated Energy Policy Report) https://www.gov.ca.gov/news.php?id=18938. http://ccag.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/SMC-Energy-and-Water-Strategy-2025-MARCH-2019-DRAFT.pdf http://ccag.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/SMC-Energy-and-Water-Strategy-2025-MARCH-2019-DRAFT.pdf Peninsula Reach Codes.org Building electrification pathways https://peninsulareachcodes.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/DraftModelReachCodes_STV2_24Apr19.pdf Implementation timeline: https://peninsulareachcodes.org/ https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/save-electricity-and-fuel/lighting-choices-save-you-money https://www.peninsulacleanenergy.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1-Year-Anniversary.pdf https://www.climatecentral.org/pdfs/SLR-CA-SM-PressRelease.pdf IPCC Special Report on Renewable - [Glossary](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/copy-glossary/) - Aquifer - A stratum of permeable rock that bears water. An unconfined aquifer is recharged directly by local rainfall, rivers and lakes, and the rate of recharge will be influenced by the permeability of the overlying rocks and soils[1]. Built systems or built environments - It can generally be described as the human-made or modified - [Adaptation/ Resilience](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/copy-adaptation-resilience/) - Adaptation planning in the present complements future GHG emissions reduction to adequately and equitably prepare for unavoidable damages and to mitigate risks as much as possible. Several departments in SMC are working towards developing adaptation strategies and frameworks to manage long-term risks and vulnerabilities highlighted throughout this report. Important adaptation strategies in SMC: SMC’s Energy - [Renewable Energy/ Energy Use](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/copy-renewable-energy-energy-use/) - Along with transportation, transition of other high emitting sectors to renewable energy and energy efficient built systems is critical from the perspective of climate change mitigation. The graph below shows the sectors emitting the most greenhouse gases and the trend from 2010 to 2015 in San Mateo County. Transportation and energy consistently emerge as top emitting - [Public Health](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/copy-public-health/) - Climate change will aggravate diseases and negatively impact health care systems as extreme weather events become more frequent[1]. It is important for health systems to be resilient to these events so that they can be ready to serve when needed the most. An illuminating case is that of Texas Medical Center (TMC), which learned lessons - [Sea Level Rise/ Flooding](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/copy2-sea-level-rise/) - Sea level rise (SLR) is primarily driven by three factors: thermal expansion of ocean waters, melting glaciers, and loss of polar ice sheets. Even though there have been different scenarios projected for SLR, it will certainly lead to coastal erosion, wetland flooding, contamination of aquifers and agricultural soil with salt, and coastal flora and fauna - [Long Term Planning For Emergency Preparedness](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/copy-long-term-planning-for-emergency-preparedness/) - Why is this Important? SMC’s location as a coastal county exposes it to high risk of inundation. The recent incidences of deadly wildfires that continue to grow in intensity and frequency have also impacted huge populations in SMC. The report highlights some of the key long-term climate-change risks as well as public agencies that have - [Supporting Pollinators with a Uniform Beekeeping Regulation for San Mateo County - By Nickie Irvine, PhD Coordinator of Bee Legal Task Force Beekeepers' Guild of San Mateo County](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/supporting-pollinators-with-a-uniform-beekeeping-regulation-for-san-mateo-county-by-nickie-irvine-phd-coordinator-of-bee-legal-task-force-beekeepers-guild-of-san-mateo-county/) - Beekeeping regulation in San Mateo County - [Staff](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/about/staff/) - Christine Kohl-Zaugg, Executive Director [email christine (at) sustainablesanmateo (dot) org] Christine Kohl-Zaugg is a long-time San Mateo County resident and accomplished sustainability professional with an MS in Environmental Sciences. For 18+ years, Christine has worked in and with the private sector, the government, non-profits and several start-ups, providing strategic and technical sustainability management consulting. Many - [Awards 2019 - Press Release](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/awards-2019-press-release/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Terry Nagel, terrynagel@gmail.com Sustainable San Mateo County Announces 2019 Award Recipients SAN MATEO, February 6, 2019 - Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) will honor TransForm, the Citizens Environmental Council of Burlingame, Lime, long-time SSMC volunteer Bill Schulte and the Half Moon Bay Library at its 20th Annual Awards Dinner on Thursday, - [SJSU Project](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/) - [hupso_hide] A Tour of the Grand Boulevard A Tour of the Grand Boulevard is a collaboration between Sustainable San Mateo County and graduate students from San Jose State's Urban Planning ENVS-160/URBP-260 "Planning for Healthy Cities" class. The students chose to explore the length of El Camino Real, documenting positive changes being made to transform this - [Legislation Watch](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/legislation-watch/) - National Legislation The Highway Trust Fund The Highway Trust Fund was established in 1956 to finance the United States Interstate Highway System. The fund receives money from a federal fuel tax of 18.4 cents per gallon on gasoline and 24.4 cents per gallon on diesel fuel. It currently has three accounts: the Highway Account which - [Resources](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/resources/) - Transit Agencies Servicing San Mateo County: SamTrans Caltrain BART Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) AC Transit's DB Express VTA (service in the southern part of the county) Regional Transit Services: Commute.org offers resources to improve commutes to, through, and within San Mateo County - including information on shuttle, vanpool, and transit incentive programs. Commute.org is - [Transportation History](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/transportation-history/) - Introduction In San Mateo County and in the United States, the history of transportation over the last 200 years has been a race to travel farther and faster. Transportation innovations helped transform San Mateo County from a quiet, pastoral area with a population of several thousand residents who mainly raised cattle and farmed to the - [Resources](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-water/resources/) - Are you a resident, business, or policymaker interested in learning more about our water system and what you can do to help? You've come to the right place then! Residents Bay Area Water Supply and Conservation Agency: Landscaping classes Lawn Be Gone Rebates High Efficiency Toilet Rebates High Efficiency Washing Machine Rebates Rain Barrel Rebates - [Local Initiatives](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-water/local-initiatives/) - What are our cities and water districts doing to combat the drought? The profiles below will provide you with links and information to your specific city and water district. Atherton [smc-hide] Atherton is served by the California Water Bear Gulch District. More can be found on Cal Water's section below [/smc-hide] Belmont [smc-hide] Please refer - [Legislation Watch](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-water/legislation-watch/) - Water is a complex subject with many costs--it needs to be captured, stored, treated, and moved from place to place. Infrastructure and energy costs, as well as costs for wildlife monitoring, quality checks, and enforcement all require a variety of costs. Proper management and reporting are also a necessary part of an effective water system. - [Sea Level Rise and Flooding](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-water/sea-level-rise-flooding/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Climate change increases the intensity of storms and contributes to sea level rise. San Mateo County faces the greatest risk from sea level rise in the Bay Area due to the high number of valuable assets located in low-lying areas. Climate change also contributes to drought which can lead to - [Water Quality](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-water/water-quality/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] In 2012, Governor Brown signed legislation affirming California residents have the right to safe, affordable, and accessible drinking water. Most of California's water is treated and filtered before it reaches residents, with the exception of the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir due to its high quality. California's groundwater supply is stored in - [2019 Green Building Award - Environmental Performance Criteria](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/2019-green-building-award-environmental-performance-criteria/) - In 1,000 words or less, on a separate piece of paper, please describe how your project addresses each of these environmental objectives. Guiding questions are listed under each objective; however, these do not need to be answered explicitly. Each section will be weighted differently, so please highlight the best features of your project and allocate - [Indicator Report Launch Events](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/indicator-report-launch-events/) - 2017 Launch Events ♦ 2016 Launch Events ♦ 2015 Launch Events ♦ 2014 Launch Events We host events each year to share updates to the indicators report and fresh content on our Key Indicator for the year. Each event focuses on a topic within our key indicator and features local expert speakers. Thursday, November 1st, - [IR Sidebar2](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/ir-sidebar2/) - REPORT SNAPSHOT[br]CITIES[br]LAUNCH EVENTS[br]INDICATORS ARCHIVE 2018 CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION [br] CIVIC ENGAGEMENT & SAFETY[br]» Crime[br]» Child Safety[br]» Voter Participation[br]» Public Libraries[br] CLIMATE DISRUPTION & ADAPTATION[br]» Greenhouse Gas Emissions[br]» Sea Level Rise and Flooding Projections[br]» Temperature[br] ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT[br]» Jobs[br]» Business Size[br]» Green Business[br]» Location Quotient[br]» Total Taxable Sales[br]» Venture Capital[br]» Skilled Workforce[br] EDUCATION[br]» Public School Enrollment[br]» Public - [Climate Disruption & Adaptation](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/climate-disruption-adaptation/) - Greenhouse Gas Emissions ♦ Temperature ♦ Sea Level Rise and Flooding Projections Sustainability Goals Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are reduced to a level that is in balance with nature's ability to absorb them. Mileage standards for automobiles continue to rise, and multi-modal transportation options reduce total vehicle miles of travel. Energy is produced from renewable - [Prosperity & Poverty](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/prosperity-poverty/) - Income and Wages ♦ Employment and Unemployment ♦ Poverty ♦ Food Insecurity Sustainability Goals Rising wages and income equity for all genders and races raises the standard of living for workers, which can further accelerate economic growth. The poverty rate is low and support services help those most in need. Income and Wages Median household - [Housing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/housing/) - Housing Affordability ♦ Housing Stock ♦ Housing Supply ♦ Homelessness Sustainability Goals A sufficient supply of housing is available to all members of society, and new housing supports diverse communities and healthy environments. Local governments consider the housing needs of people of all income levels when planning for new development. Zoning regulations allow for higher - [Population](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/population/) - Sustainability Goals A community can adapt to changing population dynamics without negatively impacting quality of life or depleting non-renewable natural resources. In January 2018, the county population increased substantially by 3,899 from 2017, a 11% increase compared to the low of 699,277 in 2005. [smc-box] The size, age, and composition of the population are important - [Auction Donation Form](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/awards/auction-donations/) - Loading... - [Impacts on Child Care, Education & Workforce Development](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/key-indicator-cost-of-living/impacts-on-child-care-education-workforce-development/) - Access to Child Care ♦ Child Care Facility Shortage ♦ Impacts on Education and Workforce Development ♦ Preschool and The Big Lift ♦ Innovations in Public School Funding ♦ Challenges and Opportunities for San Mateo County Community College Students ♦ Workforce Development and Job Training for Technology Jobs Access to Child Care 90% of brain - [Education](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/education/) - Public School Enrollment ♦ Public School Funding ♦ Standardized Tests and Language Learning ♦ Graduation and Dropout Rates Sustainability Goals All children receive a high quality education that equips them with the tools and knowledge needed to pursue their dreams and participate productively in society. Students are reading proficiently in third grade, and high school - [Civic Engagement & Safety](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/civic-engagement-safety/) - Crime ♦ Child Safety ♦ Voter Participation ♦ Public Libraries Sustainability Goals Adults and children feel social-emotional connections to their communities. Adults are active and engaged in the civic process, voter participation rates are high, and support services help those most in need. Crime rates are low, businesses and commerce thrive, and communities have safe - [Stories and Resources](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/key-indicator-cost-of-living/stories-and-resources/) - "7 years ago, I was completing a graduate degree at UC Berkeley. I worked hard, had great career prospects and a home that I owned; I was doing everything right. When the recession hit, my home went to the bank and shortly thereafter, I fell ill from a genetic condition that makes it difficult to - [Impacts on Community Health](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/key-indicator-cost-of-living/impacts-on-community-health/) - Cost of Healthcare ♦Affordable Care Act and Covered California ♦Neighborhood Health ♦Economic Impacts on Mental Health ♦ Solutions This year San Mateo County was ranked the healthiest county in the state (County Health Rankings). Ranking criteria consist of a wide range of factors, many of which are a reflection of the county's affluence and an - [Report Snapshot](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/report-snapshot/) - POPULATION[br] In 2016, San Mateo County's population was 753,123, an increase of 12,918 over the year prior. Population growth includes a natural increase (number of births minus number of deaths) of 4,118 people and negative net migration (number of people moving in minus people moving out) of 375 residents. By 2040, San Mateo County's population - [Fall 2017 Launch and Lunch](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/newsandevents/fall-2017-launch-and-lunch/) - Child Care, Education, and Community Health Wednesday, November 8, 2017, 11:30 am - 1:30 pm San Mateo Public Library - Oak Room 55 West 3rd Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94402 Join us and hear from local experts on child care, education, and healthcare, as we explore how our community is managing the high cost of - [Food System Resources](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-food-systems/food-system-resources/) - Local Food Producers* As Fresh As It Gets: The "Contact Information for Fresh Food" page of the As Fresh As It Gets website provides a list of local food producers. Blue House Farm: Organic farm in Pescadero dedicated to stewardship of the land through sustainable practices, and distribution of its produce with a Community Supported - [The Green Dollhouse Project](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-resources/the-green-dollhouse-project/) - Start Small. Think Big. Build Green. The Green Dollhouse Project was a collaborative effort of many organizations including our local players: Coyote Point Museum, Sustainable San Mateo County, Eco Design Resources and RecycleWorks. It won the 2006 EPA Environmental Achievement Award and was part of the Governor's Environmental and Economic Leadership Award that was awarded - [In the News](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/newsandevents/in-the-news/) - April 12th, 2017 - The Pacifica Tribune celebrates the 2017 Sustainability Award winners the Pacifica Beach Coalition. March 10th, 2017 - News release for the 2017 Silicon Valley Water Conservation Awards, with Sustainable San Mateo County as coalition partners. Archives: 2016 News 2015 News 2014 News 2013 News 2009 News 2008 News 2007 News 2016 - [2016 Indicators Launch & Lunch Series](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/2016launchlunch/) - Quick links: November Launch & Lunch •June Launch & Lunch • March Kickoff • Sponsors Fall 2016: Healthy Food, Hunger and Food Waste Wednesday November 2, 2016 11:30-1:30 Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building, Orange Park 781 Tennis Dr, South San Francisco, CA 94080 We completed our 2016 look at our local food system with our - [Pathways to Sustainable Communities](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/pathways-to-sustainable-communities/) - [br] - [Spring 2017 Launch and Lunch](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/spring-2017-launch/) - Housing & Transportation Solutions Tuesday, June 6, 2017, 11:30 am - 1:30 pm Redwood City Downtown Library - Community Room 1044 Middlefield Road, Redwood City, CA 94063 Share insights, ask questions, and discover solutions to our county's housing and transportation challenges. Our next research launch and lunch event will feature a panel of government, advocacy, - [Access to Healthy Food and Food Waste](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-food-systems/healthy-food-access-food-waste/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] In San Mateo County and across the country, rising levels of diabetes and an increase in obesity result in negative health outcomes. Research shows that excessive amounts of refined sugar and carbohydrates fuel these conditions and are major components of the processed food in our food system. Many residents in - [Maps Project with San Jose State University](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-resources/maps-project-with-san-jose-state-university/) - Studying the local food system led us to wonder: how far food travels to reach a farmers' market? We were fortunate to team-up with a talented group of students at San Jose State University (SJSU) that volunteered to map the origins of fresh food sold at farmers' markets in San Mateo County. The research team - [Shifting Economic Equity](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/key-indicator-cost-of-living/shifting-economic-equity/) - Shrinking Middle Class ♦ Jobs & Wages ♦ Education & Income Disparity ♦ Poverty ♦ Displacement ♦ Jobs-Housing Fit Shrinking Middle Class The middle class is shrinking in San Mateo County and the San Francisco Bay Area. Over the past 25 years, many of San Mateo County's middle-income households have been replaced with lower and - [Population](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/other/population/) - Why is this Important? The size, age, and composition of the population are important indicators for community planning and economic activity. Shifts in the demographic profile such as increased immigration and movement towards younger or older age groups can bring new demands for public services, impact economic growth, and exert pressure on open space or - [Archive](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/other/archive/) - 2016 Indicators Report Download (Full Report) 2016 Fall Indicators Report Summary Download 2016 Spring Indicators Report Summary Download 2016 Winter Indicators Report Summary Download 2015 Indicators Report Download (Full Report) 2015 Fall Indictors Report Summary Download 2015 Summer Indictors Report Summary Download 2015 Spring Indictors Report Summary Download 2014 Indicators Report Download 2013 Indicators Report - [IR Sidebar](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/ir-sidebar/) - Other Pages Table of Contents[br] 2016 Fall Summary Handout[br]2016 Spring Summary Handout[br]2016 Winter Summary Handout[br]Population[br] Mills High School 2015 Indicator Projects[br] Appendix[br] Acknowledgements[br] 2015 Launch Events[br]2015 Key Indicator: Water[br]2014 Key Indicator: Transportation[br] Share Your Thoughts on this Report Report a broken link! Thank you to our generous sponsors: Platinum[br] Pacific Gas and Electric Company[br] County - [Equity: Community Cohesion and Safety](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/equity/community-cohesion-and-safety/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Community cohesion, the "glue" holding together the members of a community, provides people with a sense of belonging and empowerment. Within a cohesive community, members are actively engaged in the well-being of the group, and they look out for and support one another. This sense of belonging not only strengthens - [Equity: Education](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/equity/education/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] A good education provides children with the foundation they need to think critically and to take effective action to reach their goals and fulfill their potential. A strong education also passes on the democratic values of our society and encourages students to become productive members of their communities. The transition - [Acknowledgements](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/other/acknowledgements/) - Sustainable San Mateo County gratefully acknowledges the work of its founders, Board and Committee members, and the many volunteers who helped make this year's report. Indicators Production Team Project Manager: Flora Kaplan City Report Coordinator: Bryan Chen Research and Project Assistant: Desmond Chow Graphic Design: Derrick Chinn Website: Kevin Wacknov Printed Materials Design: Ricki McGlashan - [Economy](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/economy/) - A vibrant economy fosters innovative businesses and provides goods, services, and jobs for area residents Employment Housing Innovation Economy by the Numbers 15,698,341,871: Total taxable sales, in dollars, in the county in 2014. After five years of increases, total taxable sales (adjusted for inflation) are 27% higher than the recent low in 2009. 23,368,827,700: Venture - [3 B's: Birds, Bees and Beans](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-resources/3bs/) - Few things have wider implications for our personal and community sustainability than what we eat and where it comes from. To encourage more residents to "grow where you are", we've worked with OpenSMC to create this guide on local residential zoning codes. We hope San Mateo County individuals and jurisdictions will use it and be - [Food System Regulation and Policy](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-food-systems/regulation-policy/) - Food systems shape public wellbeing, as well as environmental integrity, and economic activity from food production to service. Food policies are set at the federal, state, and local level to ensure healthy, safe, and nutritious food is available to the public. California is the largest agricultural producer in the U.S., which offers the opportunity to - [Equity: Community Health](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/equity/community-health/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Community Health is the pursuit of improving the health of a group of people living in a defined geographical area. Access to high quality, affordable medical care in conjunction with urban planning that is responsive to public health objectives helps people live healthier, more productive lives. Rising healthcare cost along - [Economy: Housing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/economy/housing/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] San Mateo County has some of the highest housing costs in the nation. A lack of affordable housing limits the ability of people to live in the county and can reduce the availability of qualified workers for local jobs, thereby constraining economic growth. In response to high housing prices, many - [Environment](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/environment/) - A healthy environment has clean air, water, and soil, as well as abundant open spaces that allow native animals and plants to thrive. Climate and Energy Land Use Natural Resources Environment by the Numbers 34,600,000,000: Btu of energy used in the county in 2015. 854,300: Gallons of fuel consumed per day for transportation in San - [Fall 2016: Environment: Climate and Energy](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fall-2016-environment-climate-and-energy/) - Why is this Important? [smc-hide] Increased levels of greenhouse gases (GHG) are the primary cause of man-made climate change. While some GHGs enter the atmosphere through nature's carbon cycle, an increasing share now comes from human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. Earth's average temperature has increased 1.4 º Fahrenheit over - [2016 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2016-awards/) - Featured Emcee: ABC7's David Louie • Guest Auctioneer: State Senator Jerry Hill View Event Photos on Facebook 2016 Awards Winners Ruth Peterson Award - SSMC's highest honor, awarded at the discretion of the Board of Directors to an individual who has contributed significantly to our mission. DAVID AND NANCY CRABBE David and Nancy Crabbe of - [Food Labels, Certifications, and Guidelines](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-food-systems/food-labels-certifications-and-guidelines/) - The Nutrition and Food Labeling Act of 1990 established rules for the calculation and disclosure of nutrition information on most processed food packages. Nutrition labeling for raw produce (fruits and vegetables) and fresh fish is voluntary. Regulations are maintained and enforced by the FDA nationally and the California Department of Public Health on the state - [Table of Contents](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/other/table-of-contents/) - [smc-trend-box] [smc-trend name="Access to Healthcare" new=1 dir="up" href="http://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/indicators-report/equity/community-health"] [smc-trend name="Air Quality" new=1 dir="up" href="http://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/indicators-report/environment/natural-resources"] [smc-trend name="Causes of Death" dir="up" href="http://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/indicators-report/equity/community-health"] [smc-trend name="Civic Engagement: Library Usage" dir="up" href="http://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/indicators-report/equity/community-cohesion-and-safety"] [smc-trend name="Civic Engagement: Voter Participation" dir="up" href="http://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/indicators-report/equity/community-cohesion-and-safety"] [smc-trend name="Crime and Safety" dir="up" new=1 href="http://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/indicators-report/equity/community-cohesion-and-safety"] [smc-trend name="Education: Average Class Size" id="average-class-size" dir="down" href="http://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators/indicators-report/equity/education"] [smc-trend name="Education: College Preparedness" id="college-preparedness" dir="level" - [2015 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2015-awards/) - Featured Emcee and Auctioneer: State Senator Jerry Hill View Event Photos on Facebook 2015 Awards Winners Ruth Peterson Award - SSMC's highest honor, awarded at the discretion of the Board of Directors to an individual who has contributed significantly to our mission. Tom Rounds The 2015 Ruth Peterson Award recipient, Tom Rounds, has been crucial - [Water Summit & Fall 2015 Indicators Launch](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/fall-2015-water-summit/) - Looking for the Indicators Report? Start here. Or jump directly to the Key Indicator: Water. November 17, 2015 6:00 - 9:00 PM San Mateo County Event Center - Event Pavilion 2495 S. Delaware Street, San Mateo Registration is now closed, but space is available for walk-ins. The Water Summit is the culminating event in our - [Transportation: Mobility](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/economy/employment/transportation-mobility/) - In 2013, southbound single occupancy drivers traveling in the morning were on highway 101 an average of 11 minutes longer, an increase of 46% compared to 2009. In January 2015, Caltrain had the highest ridership of all the public transportation modes in the county with 59,916 passengers per week. Commute times are faster on bullet - [Summer 2015 Indicators Launch](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/summer15launch/) - Looking for the Indicators Report? Start here. Or jump directly to the Key Indicator: Water. The Summer 2015 Indicators Launch and Lunch was held on Tuesday September 1, 2015 at the Sobrato Center - Redwood Shores. Over 60 guests attended the event focused on water conservation efforts among local organizations, government and business. An overview - [Mills Student Projects](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator-water/mills-student-projects/) - Each year, Sustainable San Mateo County works with a select group of Mills High School students to teach them about sustainability indicators. This year, the students researched Water, the 2015 Key Indicator. The Mills 2015 Indicators Projects add an important voice to the sustainability discussion and the complex subject of water. [smc-box] • A Guide - [Indicators Report Survey](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/other/indicators-survey/) - Please share your thoughts so we can continue to improve our report and provide the most relevant and useful information. Loading... - [Slideshow15](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow15/) - Franklin Street Apartments, a large, high-end apartment complex on El Camino Real. This transit-oriented, mixed-use development is within walking distance of the Redwood City Caltrain station, neighborhood retail, schools, and parks. It boasts wide, pedestrian friendly sidewalks in front of ground floor retail stores, bike lanes where feasible, and is even home to a Bay - [Slideshow16](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow16/) - The Villa Montgomery affordable housing development is located on El Camino Real within walking distance of the Caltrain station, neighborhood retail, schools, and parks. The building is LEED Gold Certified and features rooftop solar panels, energy efficient appliances and lighting, and double-glazed windows and doors. This environmentally sustainable development adds to the economically viable development - [Slideshow13](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow13/) - Connect, Redwood City! (CRC) is a last mile connection project in Redwood City providing residents, visitors, and local employees with a streamlined commute to, from, and around Redwood City. Formerly known as the Last Mile Connection Pilot Program, CRC provides easy and convenient travel options to change travel habits away from single-occupancy personal vehicle travel. - [Slideshow12](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow12/) - The recently approved San Carlos Transit Village, a mixed-use, transit-oriented development on a 6.3-acre strip on the east side of El Camino Real, adjacent to the Caltrain Station. The Transit Village project will include 233 apartments, a transit center at the south end of the site, an underground parking garage, and office and retail space. - [Slideshow11](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow11/) - An aerial view of the City of San Carlos' East Side Connect Project. The streetscape improvement plan will upgrade a 1.1-mile strip along Old County Road and East San Carlos Avenue, significantly increasing access and mobility for transit riders, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Before and after photos of Old County Road facing the Caltrain station. East - [Slideshow10](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow10/) - The Peninsula Station mixed-use, transit-oriented housing community contains 68 units and is located a quarter mile from the Hillsdale Caltrain Station and across the street from the Hillsdale Shopping Center. The Hillsdale CalTrain location in San Mateo with the truncated domes or "braille for your feet" to notify people with impaired vision of the train - [Slideshow8](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow8/) - Construction on Burlingame Avenue for the city's $16.5 million Streetscape Project. Expected to be completed by summer 2014, the project includes widening downtown sidewalks from 10 to 16 feet to make the area more pedestrian-friendly. This extra space will allow for more public seating areas, outside dining, and decorative landscaping. ADA bumpers at the corner - [Slideshow14](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow14/) - The Bay Area Bike Share program represents an effort to provide sustainable, affordable transit options near El Camino Real. Users are able to rent bikes from the docking stations and return them either to the same docking station or to other nearby stations. Several of the docking stations are located within Redwood City along the - [Slideshow5](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow5/) - Pedestrian friendly crosswalk located at the intersection of Chadbourne Avenue and El Camino Real. Aligning with GBI Principle 3: "Create a pedestrian-oriented environment and improve streetscapes, ensuring full access to and between public areas and private developments." Signage directing to transportation amenities such as BART, and CalTrain. At Chadbourne Avenue and El Camino Real the - [Slideshow9](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow9/) - Drought-tolerant landscaping on El Camino Real between 28th and 31st St., facing south toward Redwood City. The landscape architect used mulch to help keep the moisture in and the sun out and planted various types of drought tolerant plants. This area is also served by a SamTrans bus route. This meets GBI Principle 10: Pursue - [Slideshow7](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow7/) - Sharrows near the 6th & Ralston Ave Study Intersection, one of several intersections along the Ralston corridor being studied by Belmont for multi-modal feasibility. This location experiences high traffic volumes, speeds, and noise. Vehicle exhaust odors are also strong here. However, the area is aesthetically pleasing with new, well maintained road pavement, abundant foliage and - [Slideshow6](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow6/) - Belmont Village pedestrian entrance access from Ralston Ave. This clean pedestrian alley features well maintained shade trees wrapped with Christmas lights as well as outdoor restaurant seating. The alley allows for easy access to and from one of the Belmont Village parking lots and the businesses along Ralston. This is an example of how Belmont - [Slideshow4](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow4/) - Bike Lane located on Center Street and El Camino Real. This arrow indicates to the public that bicyclist can utilize the lane and further emphasizes the importance of safety. This area is specifically located on Center Street and El Camino Real. It aligns with GBI Principle 8: "Improving safety" and the "Design [of] parallel access - [Slideshow3](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow3/) - Staircase from the elevated boarding area to street level. The image shows the benefits of grade separating the rail line by providing a safer environment for pedestrians, vehicles, and the trains and highlights the streetscape improvements. GBI Principle 3: "Create a pedestrian-oriented environment and improve streetscapes, ensuring full access to and between public areas and - [Slideshow2](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow2/) - Avalon Apartments community development. This apartment community is located one block away from El Camino Real. The street level is retail and office space, with four stories above that are used for residential purposes. This community follows GBI Principle 2, "Encourage compact mixed-use development and high quality urban design and construction" by providing increased density, - [Slideshow1](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/key-indicator/sjsu-project/slideshow1/) - Mixed-use development adjacent to South San Francisco BART station provides commercial and residential opportunities and fosters the environment that attracts more people to this area. This development fulfills GBI Principle 1 " Implement zoning and specific plans that facilitate increases in density, particularly around transit stations and key intersections". Source: Google Earth Bench provided in - [Solutions](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-resources/solutions/) - [2011 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2011-awards-winners/) - The 2011 Sustainable San Mateo County Awards winners represent the forefront of those who are making positive contributions to San Mateo County's economy, environment and social equity. The winners will be honored at the 12th Annual Awards Event held on March 10, 2011 at the South San Francisco Conference Center. Click here to view or - [2012 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2012-awards-winners/) - 2012 Sustainability and Green Building Awards Food Smart: Sustainability, One Mouthful at a Time Thursday, March 15, 2012, 5:30PM South San Francisco Conference Center Click here to view photos of the event. Sustainable San Mateo County Award Winners Pie Ranch, Pescadero. At Pie Ranch, local high school students learn how to make a pie, from - [2013 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2013-awards/) - In honor of Ruth Peterson14th Annual Sustainability and Green Building AwardsEducation--The Root of SustainabilityFeaturing President, Redwood City School Board Shelly Masur as Emcee and State Senator Jerry Hill as Auctioneer Thursday, March 21, 2013 from 5:30PM-9PM South San Francisco Conference Center Award Recipients Download press release 2013 Sustainability Award Recipient Summaries Ruth Peterson Award: - [Wages](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/economy/employment/wages/) - [Unemployment](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/economy/employment/unemployment/) - [Other](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/indicators-report/other/) - [2004 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2004-award-winners/) - Sustainability Award WinnersShelter Network is a non-profit organization that has been providing services to the homeless in San Mateo County for fifteen years. Its services include shelter and food plus ongoing supervision of goal setting and goal fulfillment, money management, job and housing searches, workshops on essential life skills, organized children’s activities, licensed child care, - [Senior Health](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/senior-health/) - Senior Health in San Mateo County - Executive Summary Senior Health in San Mateo County - Full Report Senior Health in SM County, Chap. 0: Front Matter Senior Health in SM County, Chap. 1: Introduction Senior Health in SM County, Chap. 2: Basic Demographic Information Senior Health in SM County, Chap. 3: Access and Affordability - [Senior Health](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-resources/senior-health/) - Senior Health in San Mateo County - Executive Summary Senior Health in San Mateo County - Full Report Senior Health in SM County, Chap. 0: Front Matter Senior Health in SM County, Chap. 1: Introduction Senior Health in SM County, Chap. 2: Basic Demographic Information Senior Health in SM County, Chap. 3: Access and - [Food Smart - Food Tips and Facts](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-resources/food-facts/) - Did you know... 40% of San Mateo County land is farm or rangeland? Growing, processing, and transporting food products are the nation's largest contributor to the release of greenhouse gases into the environment? There are ways that we can reduce this trend by encouraging and advocating for change in the food chain: ~ Develop more - [Donors & Sponsors](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/about/donors-sponsors/) - Sustainable San Mateo County is a non-profit organization and relies on the generous donations of individuals, businesses, government, and foundations for program operations. Our federal tax ID number is 48-1265207. If you would like to learn how you or your business can donate to SSMC, please contact Adrienne Etherton, Executive Director at (650) 638-2323 or - [Healthy Communities Forum](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-resources/healthy-communities-forums/) - Join us for the third Healthy Communities Forum and explore how the various facets of the health of our cities - economic, environmental, and social - intersect. Each Forum is a unique opportunity for decision makers, community leaders, and the general public to listen to visionary speakers share their knowledge related to a specific aspect - [Presentations](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/request-a-presentation/) - There are many ways that each of us can help sustain the quality of life in our community. Building awareness is a key step. If you would like to request a free presentation to your community group that can be customized to meet your area of interest, please email advocate@sustainablesanmateo.org. Partial Listing of Recent Presentations - [1999 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/1999-award-winners/) - San Mateo's North Central Goal Directed Action Team The North Central Neighborhood of San Mateo is a multicultural, lower-income, diverse, high-density community with a multitude of problems. The North Central Goal Directed Action Team represents a unique approach to solving safety and community preservation issues in the neighborhood through the use of interdepartmental work teams. - [2000 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2000-award-winners/) - City Center Plaza, Redwood City The City Center Plaza is a model mixed-use, transit-oriented development that combines affordable housing, retail, educational, and child-care uses all in one complex. City Center Plaza was developed through an effective public-private partnership between the Mid-Peninsula Housing Coalition, a non-profit housing developer; the Raiser Organization, a for-profit commercial development company; - [2002/01 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/200201-award-winners/) - Evelyn Taylor Evelyn Taylor is being honored for her abiding dedication to providing equal educational opportunities to young people. It is clear that the overall sustainability of any society depends on the education of its youth. As principal of North Shoreview School in San Mateo with a 70% minority enrollment and many disadvantaged children, and - [2003 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2003-award-winners/) - The Bread Project The Bread Project of South San Francisco is a vocational training program that teaches the baking trade to people who have been incarcerated, are on parole, youth-at-risk, people in recovery programs, immigrants, women and minorities. The Bread Project gives participants a useful trade as well as encouragement to learn valuable life skills - [2005 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2005-award-winners/) - Sustainable San Mateo County Award Winners The Cargill South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project was hailed by environmentalists as the "holy grail." Senator Dianne Feinstein said, "Cargill is clearly doing a major public good and deserves deep appreciation." The project frees up 16,100 acres for use by local, state and federal wildlife agencies, increases Bay - [2006 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2006-award-winners/) - The 2006 Sustainable San Mateo County Award Winners Applied Biosystems ( Watch Video) has reduced hazardous waste generation by more than 50% at its local facilities in the past five years. It has retrofitted its Foster City campus with many energy saving devices and is a leader in recycling. Employees are offered incentives in support - [2007 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2007-award-winners/) - Since 1999, SSMC has awarded over 50 Sustainability and Green Building Awards of Excellence. We salute all our past winners for their contributions to making San Mateo County truly sustainable. 2007 Award Winners San Mateo Public Library ( Watch Video) opened in August 2006. The library and its construction highlight the benefits of adopting green - [2008 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2008-award-winners/) - Congratulations to the 2008 Sustainable San Mateo County Award Winners! The recipients of the 9th annual Sustainability Awards truly reflect the three-part message of Sustainable San Mateo County: to advocate and support programs within the county centered on the environment, economy and social equity. Of the 27 outstanding award nominees, the four winners and one - [2009 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2009-sustainability-award-winners/) - The 2009 Sustainable San Mateo County Awards winners represent the forefront of those who are making positive contributions to San Mateo County's economy, environment and social equity. The winners were honored at the 10th Annual Awards Event held on March 18, 2009 at the South San Francisco Conference Center. Peninsula Traffic Congestion Relief Alliance ( - [2010 Awards](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2010-award-winners/) - The 2010 Sustainable San Mateo County Awards winners represent the forefront of those who are making positive contributions to San Mateo County's economy, environment and social equity. The winners were honored at the 11th Annual Awards Event held on March 11, 2010 at the South San Francisco Conference Center. Goodwill Industries of San Francisco, San - [2010 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2010-indicators-report/) - Sustainable San Mateo County is proud to present the 2010 Indicators for a Sustainable San Mateo County report. The 14th edition features a focus on "Green Buildings"; 32 indicators on the health of our County's economy, environment and social equity; and updates from many of the cities, County and the Community College District on their - [2009 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2009-indicators-report/) - Sustainable San Mateo County is proud to present the 2009 Indicators for a Sustainable San Mateo County report. The 13th edition features a focus on "Transportation: Infrastructure & Efficiency;" 33 indicators on the health of our County's economy, environment and social equity; and updates from all the cities, County and the Community College District on - [1999 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/1999-report/) - Stay tuned...the 1999 report will be uploaded shortly. - [2000 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2000-indicators-report/) - To download the 2000 Report, click on the link below. 2000 Indicators Report - [2001 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2001-indicators-report/) - To download the 2001 Report, click on the link below. 2001 Indicators Report - [2002 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2002-indicators-report/) - To download the 2002 Report, click on the link below. 2002 Indicators Report - [2003 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2003-indicators-report/) - To download the 2003 Report, click on the link below. 2003 Indicators Report - [2004 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2004-indicators-report/) - To download the 2004 Report, click on the links below. 2004 Indicators Report, Part 1 2004 Indicators Report, Part 2 2004 Indicators Report, Part 3 2004 Indicators Report, Part 4 - [2006 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/the-indicators-project-april-2006/) - The tenth anniversary edition of the Indicators for a Sustainable San Mateo County Report features 31 sustainability indicators and a 10-year trend analysis of 7 key indicators. Also, new in 2006 are one-page reports from 19 cities in our county on sustainable measures being taken by the cities to ensure a sustainable future. Download the - [2007 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2007-indicators-report/) - Click here to download the Full 2007 Report. Sustainable San Mateo County previewed the 2007 Indicators for a Sustainable San Mateo County: A Yearly Report Card at the Progress Seminar in Monterey on April 13th. The report was officially launched on Monday, May 7, 2007. The report evaluates 32 indicators of the sustainability of our - [2008 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/) - Sustainable San Mateo County is proud to present the 2008 Indicators for a Sustainable San Mateo County report. The 12th edition features a focus on "Water: Supply & Demand;" 33 indicators on the health of our County's economy, environment and social equity; and updates from all the cities, County and the Community College District on - [2010 Awards Photos](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2010-award-winners/2010-awards-photos/) - Congratulations to the 2010 Sustainable San Mateo County Award Winners! Check out pictures below of the event, taken by Dennis Kennedy. - [2008 Awards Photos](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2008-award-winners/2008-award-pictures/) - Congratulations to the 2008 Sustainable San Mateo County Award Winners! Check out pictures below of the event, taken by Scott Buschman Photography. About 450 people were in attendance and it was by far the most successful Awards Event in Sustainable San Mateo County history! Thanks for being part of such a memorable and fun evening! - [2009 Awards Photos](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2009-sustainability-award-winners/2009-awards-photos/) - Congratulations to the 2009 Sustainable San Mateo County Award Winners! Check out pictures below of the event, taken by Dennis Kennedy. - [Important Questions...About the Future of Our Community](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/sustainability-resources/important-questionsabout-the-future-of-our-community/) - To download/view the document, CLICK HERE In 2009, all cities in San Mateo County and the rest of the Bay Area will be making very important land use planning decisions as they update the housing elements of their general plans. Some cities will also be updating their entire general plans. The decisions made during these - [Harley Farms](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2008-award-winners/harley-farms/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com Harley Farms in Pescadero started 16 years ago with six goats and has since grown into a 200-goat operation as the only dairy farm in San Mateo County. The nine-acre farm is a "farmstead dairy," meaning the cheese produced comes directly from the farm's animals. It has received six national cheese - [Community Gatepath](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2008-award-winners/community-gatepath/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com Community Gatepath is the largest non-profit group in the county serving people with disabilities, reaching more than 6,700 people. Gatepath is the leading agency providing early intervention services for kids with developmental disabilities. They also offer job placement assistance and help transition disabled people to live independently. As a result, businesses - [Catalino Tapia](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2008-award-winners/catalino-tapia/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com Catalino Tapia is an extraordinary story of perseverance and giving. Tapia came to the United States from Mexico at the age of 20 with merely $6 in his pocket. He worked as a baker and a machine operator and, with his wife, bought a home in Redwood City. After watching his - [Care2.com](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2008-award-winners/care2com/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com Care2.com is a Redwood City-based company that has used its website, www.care2.com, to garner attention to world problems such as AIDS, deforestation and human rights abuses. This unique site empowers its members to start and sign petitions, create networks between non-profit groups and causes, post news articles, send eCards (each of - [Tribute: Community College District](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2008-award-winners/tribute-san-mateo-county-community-college-district/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com - [TAIJI House](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2008-award-winners/taiji-house/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com - [Nueva Hillside Learning Complex](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2008-award-winners/nueva-hillside-learning-complex/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com - [Executive Summary](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/executive-summary/) - The twelfth annual Indicators for a Sustainable San Mateo County evaluates 33 indicators,or trends, to provide a snapshot of how we are doing as a community and show our progress toward a sustainable future. Among the 33 indicators is a key indicator, Water"Supply and Demand, which we believe will have an increasingly important role in - [Recent Press and Highlights](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/recent-press/) - The Indicators Report was first made available to the public at an April 10 press event. The report will be widely available to the public begining at the annual Progress Seminar on April 12 in Monterey. Hosted by the Redwood City/San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce, the Progress Seminar brings together the leaders of San - [Water: Supply and Demand (Key Indicator)](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/water-supply-and-demand-key-indicator/) - Why Is This Important? Communities need safe, clean drinking water and adequate supplies to accommodate their residential and nonresidential needs. Currently, San Mateo County has both. The county has limited local sources of water, however, and relies heavily on the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission’s (SFPUC) regional water system. The SFPUC system gets 85 percent - [Water: Drinking Water Quality](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/water-drinking-water-quality/) - Why Is This Important? High quality drinking water is essential to human health. Contaminated water can cause acute dis­ease, birth defects, infant mortality, and increased cancer rates. Federal and state safe drinking water regulations aim to assure the high quality of public water supplies. Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) are drinking water standards or limits of - [Water: Bay and Ocean Water Quality](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/water-bay-and-ocean-water-quality/) - Why Is This Important? San Mateo County is bordered by the San Francisco Bay to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Both support marine ecosystems, local economies, recreational activities, tourism, and food resources. What Is A Sustainable State? A sustainable state is one where harmful pollutants do not run into the Bay - [Voter Participation](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/voter-participation/) - Why Is This Important? Voting allows people to participate in community-wide decision making. High voter turnout indicates citizens are engaged and feel empowered to influence decisions affecting them. High voter participation is essential so that public policy accurately reflects the will of the people. Low voter turnout can signal disenfranchisement and skew public policy toward - [Solid Waste](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/solid-waste/) - Why Is This Important? Daily household and economic activity generates solid waste that is put in landfills. This waste is derived from timber, metals, and other natural resources. Many of these resources are renewable, but consumption may outpace nature’s ability to replenish them. Waste reduction and recycling efforts focus on ways to balance resource consumption - [Public Library Use](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/public-library-use/) - Why Is This Important? Public libraries are gateways to information, providing members of a community access to the internet, reference tools, and a variety of published materials. Libraries are important institutions for promoting social equity as they do not discriminate, but rather provide equal access to all members of society. For some, libraries are the - [Population](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/population/) - Why Is This Important? Population growth increases demands on land, natural resources, and public services. Changing demographics require local businesses and governments to adapt their products and services to their populations’ specific needs. What Is a Sustainable State? A sustainable state is one where a community is able to accommodate population growth without negatively impacting - [Parks and Open Space](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/parks-and-open-space/) - Why Is This Important? Parks and open space enrich a community’s quality of life. The availability of active (playgrounds, playfields, etc.) and passive (hiking trails, picnic areas, etc.) recreational opportunities offer public health benefits and increase values of nearby property. Parks are also public gathering places that bring people together and build a sense of - [Housing: Homelessness](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/housing-homelessness/) - Why Is This Important? Homeless individuals lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. Homelessness detracts from an individual’s ability to reach his or her full human potential and negatively impacts their overall health. Difficulty finding a safe place to sleep at night can undermine a person’s ability to maintain a steady job. Homelessness can - [Housing: Affordability](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/housing-affordability/) - Why Is This Important? A lack of affordable housing limits the ability of people to live in San Mateo County and employers to recruit qualified workers. Individuals are left with the options of living in another county and facing long commutes, paying more than they can comfortably afford for housing, living in overcrowded conditions, or - [Health Care: Insurance and Cost](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/health-care-insurance-and-cost/) - Why Is This Important? Affordable quality health care is necessary for a healthy and productive life. Health insurance allows access to health care and spreads the cost across the community. High costs for health insurance, treatment, and medications are a deterrent to obtaining proper care and leave less money for other basic needs. Deferring care - [Health Care: Community Health](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/health-care-community-health/) - Why Is This Important? The health of a community is affected by many interrelated factors including environmental and neighborhood characteristics, social factors, and individual behavior. Environmental and neighborhood characteristics influencing residents’ health can be direct, such as exposure to toxic substances, or indirect such as access to recreation areas or the availability of affordable housing. - [Habitat Protection](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/habitat-protection/) - Why Is This Important? San Mateo County supports many plants and animals that are important to the health of local ecosystems and provide environmental and economic benefits to local communities. Development in sensitive areas, pollution, or the introduction of invasive species can all lead to habitat loss and destruction. What Is a Sustainable State? A - [Green Buildings](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/green-buildings/) - Why Is This Important? The construction, operation, maintenance, and removal of buildings use a tremendous amount of energy and natural resources and generate large quantities of waste and pollution. Green building practices seek to minimize the impact of our built environment by creating healthier and more resource-efficient buildings. Green buildings provide environmental benefits by reducing - [Energy Use](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/energy-use/) - Why Is This Important? California and San Mateo County are dependent on the burning of nonrenewable fossil fuels such as coal, petroleum, and natural gas for energy. The burning of fossil fuels can negatively impact air quality and release significant quantities of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas linked to climate change. California has committed to - [Education](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/education/) - Why Is This Important? A good education provides a foundation for children to become productive members of society, obtain high-quality jobs, and contribute towards their community’s general welfare. By providing equal access to a good education, schools can play a large role in creating a level playing field for all children, regardless of their socioeconomic - [Economy: Unemployment](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/economy-unemployment/) - Why Is This Important? The unemployment rate is a basic indicator of economic vitality. Unemployment rates fluctuate with economic cycles and vary across regions. Unemployed individuals are unable to earn money to meet financial obligations, may lack health insurance they normally would receive through an employer, and could be at risk of losing their home. - [Economy: Jobs](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/economy-jobs/) - Why Is This Important? A growing and diversified job base provides economic opportunities for individuals with different skills and educational backgrounds. A substantial distribution of jobs among various industries and small and medium-sized companies creates a platform for economic sustainability. If employment is concentrated in a few large industries, a community’s economic vitality is threatened - [Economy: Income Distribution and Poverty](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/economy-income-distribution-and-poverty/) - Why Is This Important? The cost of living in San Mateo County is very high relative to other parts of California. Wide gaps in income levels may create a small class of upper-income residents who can afford to live in the county while middle- and lower-income residents may have difficulty remaining. A large income disparity - [Ecological Footprint](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/ecological-footprint/) - Why is This Important? All human activities depend on the biological support of nature. An Ecological Footprint is a tool designed to measure a population’s use of natural resources. It measures the area of land and water a population requires to produce the resources it consumes and absorb the waste it produces. When a population - [Disaster Preparedness](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/disaster-preparedness/) - Why Is This Important? Natural or human-caused disasters can have devastating effects on a community, the economy, and the environment. Having communitywide or individual plans that provide food, clean water, emergency medical services, temporary shelter, transportation, and other items can lessen the impacts from disasters on residents. Plans to enable areas to quickly restore vital - [Crime](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/crime/) - Why Is This Important? High levels of crime impact a community’s social and economic well-being. In areas with high levels of crime, community members may become fearful and lose their attachment to their community. High levels of crime can impact property values, inhibit investment in a community, and keep potential customers from visiting local businesses. - [Contaminated Sites](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/contaminated-sites/) - Why Is This Important? Contaminated sites are areas with ground pollution that can jeopardize public health, the environment, and the economy. Ground contamination has been found on public and commercial land as well as in residential areas. Contaminated sites are an economic liability as site cleanup can be costly and time consuming. Contaminated sites are - [Children: Health](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/children-health/) - Why Is This Important? A child’s health can impact his or her physical and emotional development. It can also impact their education through missed school days or an inability to concentrate during class. Obese or overweight children are at risk of developing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma, and Type 2 diabetes, among other serious - [Children: Child Care](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/children-child-care/) - Why Is This Important? The quality of child care, including preschool, influences socio-emotional and cognitive development, including language learning, problem solving, self control, social skills, and school readiness. San Mateo County’s high cost of living makes the availability of affordable child care extremely important as many families need two incomes to afford to live here. - [Children: Child Abuse](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/children-child-abuse/) - Why Is This Important? Healthy children in stable families provide the foundation for a sustainable community. Unable to protect themselves, children depend upon adults to provide a safe and nurturing environment. When a child is abused, particularly by an adult with whom that child has a significant relationship, that child’s development is profoundly impacted. Trauma - [Air Quality](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/2008-indicators-report/air-quality/) - Why Is This Important? Clean air is essential to human and environmental health. Air pollution increases the risk of lung disease and contributes to a variety of health problems, including asthma, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory problems in children. Air pollution can also damage local ecosystems. What Is a Sustainable State? A sustainable state is one - [Amy Wright](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2006-award-winners/amy-wright/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com Amy Wright created and implemented the New Beginnings Garden at Shelter Network's Haven Family House in Menlo Park. She brought together many willing donors and volunteers to contribute materials and time to build the garden. Her persistence has netted more than $90,000 of in-kind donations and more than 900 volunteer hours. - [Peninsula Conflict Resolution Center](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2006-award-winners/peninsula-conflict-resolution-center/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com The Peninsula Conflict Resolution Center (PCRC) has for 19 years helped people to resolve conflict in a peaceful manner and to work together effectively. Resolving conflict is an important aspect of sustainability in a civil society. PCRC has aided individuals, groups and organizations by identifying problems, clarifying perspectives, developing viable options - [SUGEN Laboratories](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2006-award-winners/sugen-laboratories/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com Sugen Laboratory in South San Francisco is the winner of the 2006 Green Building Award for its use of renewable and environmentally sensitive materials, energy and water efficiency, and waste reduction. The project uses sustainable materials, an energy conserving heating and ventilating system, and water conserving fixtures. They have included a - [Applied Biosystems](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2006-award-winners/applied-biosystems/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com Applied Biosystems has reduced hazardous waste generation by more than 50% at its local facilities in the past five years. It has retrofitted its Foster City campus with many energy saving devices and is a leader in recycling. Employees are offered incentives in support of carpooling and public transit. It is - [Sue Lempert](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2006-award-winners/sue-lempert/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com Sue Lempert has dedicated many years to public service as a member of the San Mateo City Council, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, and other public agencies where she has supported policies consistent with the triple bottom-line of sustainability. Lempert initiated the Rail Corridor Plan to encourage mixed-use, transit-oriented development. She is - [The City of Millbrae](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2007-award-winners/the-city-of-millbrae/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com The City of Millbrae is leading the way with two forward-thinking programs: their Energy Cogeneration Facility at the wastewater treatment plant, and their Recycling and Waste Prevention Program. The upgraded wastewater treatment plant uses kitchen grease from local restaurants to help power the plant. This reduces greenhouse gas emissions, increases city - [Samaritan House](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2007-award-winners/samaritan-house/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com Samaritan House has long provided important services to the less fortunate in our county. These include counseling of displaced persons on managing their lives, and providing clothing, medical care, food, shelter, employment assistance, and food & toys for the holidays. One of its most unique services is a free medical clinic - [Rotary Floritas](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2007-award-winners/rotary-floritas/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com Rotary Floritas, sponsored by the San Mateo Rotary Club, demonstrates the effectiveness of a community group perceiving a need and filling it. Housing, especially for seniors, is a key challenge to sustaining our quality of life. Their original housing development for seniors, the Rotary Haciendas, was so successful they decided to - [Eleanor Williams-Curry](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2007-award-winners/eleanor-williams-curry/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com Eleanor Williams-Curry is being honored for her contribution to the success of young women in our county. In 1986, she founded the "Eleanor Curry Fund for Girls and Young Women" to help them achieve success. Her philosophy is summed up in this quote: "Life is full of lines drawn to keep - [San Mateo Public Library](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/previous-award-winners/2007-award-winners/san-mateo-public-library/) - Video by BaciPix, www.bacipix.com San Mateo Public Library opened in August 2006. The library and its construction highlights the benefits of adopting green principles, and it has earned a Silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. Of particular note is the attention paid to the life-cycle of the building's materials and systems. Some - [San Mateo County Community College District](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/san-mateo-county-community-college-district/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [San Mateo County](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/san-mateo-county/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [South San Francisco](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/south-san-francisco/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [San Mateo](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/san-mateo/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [San Carlos](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/san-carlos/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [San Bruno](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/san-bruno/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [Redwood City](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/redwood-city/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [Portola Valley](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/portola-valley/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [Pacifica](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/pacifica/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [Millbrae](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/millbrae/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [Menlo Park](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/menlo-park/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [Hillsborough](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/hillsborough/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [Half Moon Bay](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/half-moon-bay/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [Foster City](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/foster-city/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [East Palo Alto](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/east-palo-alto/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [Daly City](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/daly-city/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [Colma](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/colma/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [Burlingame](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/burlingame/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [Brisbane](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/brisbane/) - Click Here To Download 2007 Report - [Woodside](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/home/woodside/) - Did not report ## Documents - [Leaf Blower Regulation](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/leaf-blower-regulation/) - Transitioning away from gas-powered leaf blowers to support environmental justice, public safety and environmental protection - [How Cities Are Addressing Extreme Heat](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/heat-officers-for-cities/) - Centralizing responsibility for heat resilience to protect public health and reduce climate-related risks - [Plastic Roadways](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/plastic-roadways/) - Paving roads with asphalt strengthened by waste plastic keeps plastic out of landfills - [Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/accessory-dwelling-units-adus/) - ADUs support diverse living arrangements, increase affordability and foster a sustainable approach to urban development - [Rent Stabilization Ordinance](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/rent-stabilization-ordinance/) - A cap on rent increases that helps reduce displacement - [Alternatives to Plastic in Public Spaces](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/alternatives-to-plastic-in-public-spaces/) - Biodiverse, natural solutions for landscaping, playgrounds, dog parks, gathering areas and sports fields - [Streetlight Electric Vehicle Charging](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/streetlight-electric-vehicle-charging/) - Provide more public EV charging stations via LED streetlights that have excess electrical capacity - [Plug-in Solar Panels](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/plug-in-solar-panels/) - Bringing solar energy within reach of renters and apartment dwellers through simple, plug-and-play technology - [Plant-Based by Default](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/plant-based-by-default/) - Default choices can substantially reduce meat consumption, lower emissions and normalize sustainable eating habits - [School Programs for Reusable Utensils](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/school-reusable-utensil-programs/) - With hundreds of students in a school and thousands in a single school district, millions of plastic items can be diverted from the waste stream - [Minimum Lease Terms](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/minimum-lease-terms/) - Minimum lease terms provide rental property owners and tenants a guaranteed contract length that promotes housing stability - [Eviction Prevention & Housing Stability Programs](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/eviction-prevention-housing-stability-programs/) - Implementing programs that circumvent families from eviction, promoting long-term housing and financial stability - [School Climate Action Initiatives](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/school-climate-action-initiatives/) - Empowering schools to lead on sustainability, reduce emissions and prepare students for a climate-resilient future - [Environmental Justice Element](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/environmental-justice-element/) - A state-mandated planning tool to address pollution burdens and health disparities in vulnerable communities - [Solar-Powered EV Charging](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/solar-powered-ev-charging/) - Solar-powered EV charging stations offer a renewable, off-grid solution for vehicle charging, reducing emissions and alleviating grid demand - [Permit Process Simplification](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/permit-process-simplification/) - Simplification of permitting process for solar panel and EV charger installation accelerate adoption of these green technologies - [EV Charging in Multifamily Housing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/ev-charging-in-multifamily-housing/) - Incentivizing EV chargers through education, financial and technical support - [Climate Funding Through Taxes](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/climate-funding-through-taxes/) - A climate funding tax, imposed either through a general tax or a targeted tax on a specific good or service, to raise funds for climate adaptation strategies - [2024 Indicators Report](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/2024-indicators-report/) - [Modular Construction for Affordable Housing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/modular-construction-for-affordable-housing/) - Affordable housing can be built faster and cheaper with modular construction than with conventional construction - [Zoning Ordinances that Address Sea Level Rise](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/zoning-ordinances-that-address-sea-level-rise/) - Include zoning requirements that make development more flood resilient to protect people’s safety and reduce repair costs - [Green Mondays](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/green-mondays/) - Highlight plant-based meal options one day per week to decrease carbon emissions - [Regenerative Farming](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/regenerative-farming/) - Sustainable farming practices can help restore soil health, thereby capturing carbon and improving the water cycle - [Community Microgrids](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/community-microgrids/) - Localized microgrids improve the energy independence and offer other benefits - [Access to Green Spaces](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/access-to-green-spaces/) - Increasing access to green spaces and parks is linked to a range of positive outcomes for both individuals and communities - [Direct Install Electrification](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/direct-install-electrification/) - To encourage homeowners to change from natural gas to electricity, cities, utility companies and community organizations are offering help with the process - [Urban Biofilters](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/urban-biofilters/) - Utilizing the natural filtration and absorption capabilities of plants and microorganisms to improve air quality and reduce heat islands - [Campaign Contributions](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/campaign-contributions/) - Restrict or ban campaign contributions from real estate developers to elected officials - [Slow Streets](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/slow-streets/) - Closing some streets can encourage more sustainable and healthy modes of transportation - [Environmentally Preferable Purchasing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/environmentally-preferable-purchasing/) - Prioritizing the consumption of products and services that reduce impact on climate - [Centralized Waste Bins](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/centralized-waste-bins/) - Replacing personal waste bins with centralized waste bins in an office encourages recycling, reduces landfill waste and cuts recycling-stream contamination - [Sustainable 401k for Employees](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/sustainable-401k-for-employees/) - By making retirement plan options more sustainable, employers ensure that this often overlooked part of their operations is brought in line with the rest of their sustainability objectives - [Integrated Pest Management Policy or Ordinance](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/integrated-pest-management-policy-or-ordinance/) - Minimizing the use of chemical pesticides can protect plants and animals, as well as aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems - [Transportation Management Associations](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/transportation-management-associations/) - Nonprofit, member-controlled organizations that coordinate and implement transportation demand management - [Missing Middle Housing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/missing-middle-housing/) - Missing middle housing increases the affordability and availability of housing - [Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/tenant-opportunity-to-purchase-act/) - Establish the first right of refusal for tenants when their home or building is being sold - [Tiny Homes](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/tiny-homes/) - Constructing low square footage promotes greater housing affordability and environmental sustainability - [Business License Tax Helps Housing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/business-license-tax-helps-housing/) - Increase the business license tax for owners of residential rental units to fund affordable housing - [Renter Equity Programs](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/renter-equity-programs/) - Enable renters to earn equity in exchange for contributing to the management of their apartments - [Urban Tree Planting](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/urban-tree-planting/) - There are a variety of ways to prioritize planting trees, which offer countless benefits - [Limited Equity Housing Cooperatives](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/limited-equity-housing-cooperatives/) - This form of home ownership offers lower-income families a chance to own their homes - [Quick-Build Street Design](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/quick-build-street-design/) - Quick-build projects can spur the development of more walkable and bikeable streets - [On-Site Water Reuse for Businesses](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/on-site-water-reuse-for-businesses/) - On-site water reuse systems make buildings more sustainable and resilient in their water use - [Rain Garden Rebate](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/rain-garden-rebate/) - Rain gardens absorb runoff water up to 40% more efficiently than a standard lawn - [Landscape Design Assistance](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/landscape-design-assistance/) - A free or discounted landscape analysis service can help commercial and residential customers transition to water-efficient landscaping - [Streamlined Residential Graywater Use](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/streamlined-residential-graywater-use/) - Simplifying requirements for gray water systems can encourage residents to participate in water reuse and conservation - [InVEST Toolbox](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/invest-toolbox/) - A suite of free models that map and value the benefits nature provides to human society - [Flood Insurance Community Rating System](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/flood-insurance-community-rating-system/) - Participating communities can strengthen flood risk management efforts, improve safety and reduce costs - [Low-Carbon Concrete](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/low-carbon-concrete/) - Using concrete that stores CO2 can significantly decrease global carbon emissions and make buildings stronger - [Ban on New Fossil Fuel Infrastructure](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/ban-on-new-fossil-fuel-infrastructure/) - The ban can speed up the transition to cleaner energy sources - [Urban Community Gardens](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/urban-community-gardens/) - Urban gardens provide an innovative way to cultivate community relationships and hyper-local produce in dense city environments - [Public Housing Revitalization](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/public-housing-revitalization/) - Rehabilitating existing units can be more cost effective than building new housing - [Eliminate Off-Street Parking Minimums](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/eliminate-off-street-parking-minimums/) - Parking minimums contribute to the overreliance on cars as the primary form of transportation - [Wildlife Corridors](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/wildlife-corridors/) - Wildlife corridors enhance biodiversity by facilitating migration, providing secure passages across roads, and maintaining connected populations for reproduction - [Seamless Transit Principles](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/seamless-transit-principles/) - Endorsing Seamless Bay Area?s seven guiding principles can improve regional transportation - [Land Value Tax](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/land-value-tax/) - This tax encourages densification and efficient land use, discouraging land speculation - [Deconstruction Waste Management](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/deconstruction-waste-management/) - Deconstruction offers a significant form of waste reduction - [Rubberized Asphalt Concrete](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/rubberized-asphalt-concrete/) - Rubberized asphalt concrete is made by mixing crumb rubber with asphalt - [Smart Glass for Commercial Buildings](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/smart-glass-for-commercial-buildings/) - Smart Glass has the potential to cut heating, ventilation and air-conditioning - [Green Roofs](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/green-roofs/) - Green roof can improve building insulation, energy efficiency, aesthetic appearance and carbon offsets - [Zero Percent Loans](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/zero-percent-loans/) - Zero percent loan programs increase the accessibility of transitioning to more energy-efficient infrastructure - [Permeable Pavement Rebate](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/permeable-pavement-rebate/) - Permeable pavement promotes more sustainable landscaping decreasing runoff and erosion - [Satellite Water Treatment Facility](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/satellite-water-treatment-facility/) - A decentralized water treatment system handling water treatment needs at a smaller scale - [Recycled Water Ordinance](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/recycled-water-ordinance/) - Requiring the use of recycled water for irrigation, landscaping and toilet flushing can result in dramatic water savings - [Floating Islands](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/floating-islands/) - Modular plant platforms clean the water in rivers, lakes, ponds and canals - [Comprehensive City Water Conservation](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/comprehensive-city-water-conservation/) - Conservation practices to ensure the water supply remains available for future generations - [Expanded Teleworking Options](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/expanded-teleworking-options/) - Teleworking has positive benefits for businesses, employees and the environment - [Shuttles for Employee Commutes](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/shuttles-for-employee-commutes/) - Employer-sponsored shuttles can drastically decrease traffic congestion and carbon emissions by reducing solo driving during peak commute hours - [Housing Impact Fees](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/housing-impact-fees/) - Housing impact fees incentivize developers and landlords to offer affordable housing and contribute to government funds for affordable housing developments - [Mandatory Rent Registry](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/mandatory-rent-registry/) - A rent registry requires property owners/managers or landlords to annually report data regarding residential rents and other relevant information to a citywide database - [Rain Barrel Rebate](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/rain-barrel-rebate/) - Financial incentives for rain barrels increase rainwater reuse - [Exemplary Inclusionary Housing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/exemplary-inclusionary-housing/) - Housing programs or policies that are designed to ensure the provision of affordable housing units within new residential developments - [Responsible Recycling of e-Waste](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/responsible-recycling-of-e-waste/) - Electronic waste recycling keeps materials out of landfills and reduces the demand for extraction of raw resources - [Local Commuter Benefits Ordinance](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/local-commuter-benefits-ordinance/) - Expand the reach of the Bay Area Commuter Benefits Program by requiring employers with 10 to 49 employees to offer similar commuter benefits - [Home Electricity Assessment Toolkit](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/home-electricity-assessment-toolkit/) - The toolkit provides residents with resources to lower their energy - [Food Waste Tracking](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/food-waste-tracking/) - By measuring the specific dishes wasted, the culinary team can work to create an optimal menu and prepare the proper amount of each food each night - [Carbon Sequestration with Algae](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/carbon-sequestration-with-algae/) - As algae grow in these ponds, they sequester carbon as the bloom expands - [Anti-Idling Ordinance](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/anti-idling-ordinance/) - The parked idling of all motor vehicles in California is estimated to emit 3 million tons of CO2 annually - [Single-Use Plastic Foodware Ban](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/single-use-plastic-foodware-ban/) - Plastic waste will be reduced dramatically, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, terrestrial and marine pollution, and needed landfill space for end-of-life disposal - [Induction Cooktop Loaner Program](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/induction-cooktop-loaner-program/) - Loaning induction cooktops to individuals helps persuade them of the benefits of this alternative to gas cooktops - [Right to Repair Act](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/right-to-repair-act/) - The idea that individuals and third parties should be allowed to and able to repair electronic devices in order to avoid having to continually replace electronics - [Beekeeping Regulation](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/beekeeping-regulation/) - Pollination is essential to food security and maintaining a healthy ecosystem - [Corporate Waste Audits](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/corporate-waste-audits/) - By reducing trash, an employer can reduce costs associated with waste hauling and materials management - [Encouraging Employee Bike Use](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/encouraging-employee-bike-use/) - Biking is a clean method of transportation that can help businesses reduce their carbon footprint - [Green Cleaning with Engineered Water](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/green-cleaning-with-engineered-water/) - Transitioning to Stabilized Aqueous Ozone greatly reduces plastic waste associated with single-use cleaning containers - [Clipper START Card](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/clipper-start-card/) - Clipper START offers lower fares to lower-income individuals who frequently use transit - [Shared Micromobility](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/shared-micromobility/) - These novel services, enabled by advancing technology, increase the number and type of available alternative transport modes - [Environmental Impact Scores for Food](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/environmental-impact-scores-for-food/) - Food has a large impact on the environment over the course of its life cycle - [Alternative Transportation Incentives](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/alternative-transportation-incentives/) - Cash incentives can encourage employees to walk, bike, take public transportation and carpool to and from work - [Equitable Sea Level Rise Adaptation Strategies](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/equitable-sea-level-rise-adaptation-strategies/) - Understanding socioeconomic factors can help communities address the challenge of flooding due to climate change - [Banning New Gas Stations](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/banning-new-gas-stations/) - A ban might accelerate the transition to electric vehicles by signaling a decrease in long-term support for gas-powered transportation - [Youth Climate Ambassadors Program](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/youth-climate-ambassadors-program/) - Year-long program trains high school students to take climate action into their own hands - [Clean Air for All](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/clean-air-for-all/) - These programs are vital for informing the public, aiding the achievement of air quality standards, and assessing the impact of transportation on air pollution - [Corporate Conservation Programs](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/corporate-conservation-programs/) - Business campuses that develop voluntary conservation programs help biodiversity and can receive Wildlife Habitat Council Conservation Certification - [Pollinator-Friendly Solar](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/pollinator-friendly-solar/) - Planting vegetation that attracts pollinators on solar farms can help increase biodiversity and support pollinator populations - [Cottage Food Laws](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/cottage-food-laws/) - Allowing the sale of homemade foods directly to consumers helps home cooks and small businesses make a living by selling their creations and improves food access - [Police Reform](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/document/police-reform/) - Overhauling current policing practices and standards can reduce the harmful impacts of police brutality and ensure the safety of all people ## Fusion Elements - [2026 Gala Sponsor Title](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2026-gala-sponsor-title/) - [2026 Gala Sponsor Logos and Names Global](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2026-gala-sponsor-logos-and-names-global/) - 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To become a sponsor, click here for details or email us at sponsor@sustainablesanmateo.org SILVER Donna and Eric Colson (City of Burlingame) BRONZE Terry and Jim NagelOneShoreline - [2026 Gala Title Global](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2026-awards-title-global-2/) - 2026 Gala Sponsors - [2025 Awards Friends Title ( Cloned )](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2025-awards-friends-title-2/) - [Testimonials 1](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/testimonials-1/) - “The team at Sustainable San Mateo County is the gold standard in supporting local environmental work. They provide elected officials with critical data and ideas to help us meet our climate action goals and have been a wonderful partner in our work to ‘green’ San Mateo County. Please join me in supporting this organization so - [See All Our Sponsors](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/see-all-our-sponsors/) - [Sponsor Title Bar](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/sponsor-title-bar/) - [2025 Awards Title](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2025-awards-title/) - 2025 Awards Sponsors - [2025 Awards Logos](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2025-awards-logos/) - Click here to learn about the benefits of becoming a 27th Annual Sustainability Awards sponsor. Champions Benefactors Community Sponsors David and Nancy Crabbe Sue Lempert Port of Redwood City South San Francisco Scavenger Neighborhood Sponsors David Amann The Baylands, Inc. 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Click here for details. Associates Donna and Eric Colson Advocates Lisa Diaz and Michael Nash - [2024 Awards Event Sponsors - TITLE](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2024-awards-event-sponsors/) - 2024 Awards Sponsors - [2024 Awards Event Sponsor LOGOS and NAMES](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2024-awards-event-sponsor-contents/) - Become a 2025 sponsor now to get the full benefit of promotion through April 2025. Click here for details. Champions Benefactor Community Sponsor Bohannon Foundation | Caltrain | Community Bank of the Bay | Joe Cotchett | David & Nancy Crabbe | Mark Olbert & Barbara McHugh | Port of Redwood City | SamTrans/San Mateo - [2025 Indicators Report Sponsors - Logos (draft)](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2024-indicators-report-sponsors-logos-2/) - To sponsor the upcoming Indicators Report, contact sponsor@sustainablesanmateo.org. - [2025 Indicators Report Sponsors Title](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2024-indicators-report-sponsors-2/) - Our 2025 Indicators Report sponsors! - [2024 Neighborhood Sponsors](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2024-neighborhood-sponsors/) - [Green band Indicators Report Sponsors](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/green-band-indicators-report-sponsors/) - [2023 Awards bottom green bar special thanks...](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2023-awards-bottom-green-bar-special-thanks/) - [2023 Awards Special Contributors](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2023-awards-special-contributors/) - [2023 Awards Friends](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2023-awards-friends/) - [2023 Neighborhood Sponsors- content](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2023-neighborhood-sponsors-content/) - [2023 Awards Sponsors - Neighborhood Sponsors](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2023-awards-sponsors-neighborhood-sponsors/) - [2023 Awards Sponsors - leader, benefactors, community sponsors](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2023-awards-sponsors-leader/) - Leader Benefactors Community Sponsors Bohannon Foundation Franklin Templeton Google Northern California Carpenters Local No. 617 Putnam, Kent Silicon Valley Community Foundation South San Francisco Scavenger Co., Inc. - [tracey](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/tracey/) - [friend](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/friend/) - [Awards Sponsors head 2023](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/awards-sponsors-head-2023/) - [Special Contributors 3](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/special-contributors-3/) - [Neigbors separator 2a](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/neigbors-separator-2a/) - [Neighbors content 2](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/neighbors-content-2/) - [Neighbors middle 2](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/neighbors-middle-2/) - [Leader - top 1](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/leader-top-1/) - [Friends 2023 container](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/friends-2023-container/) - [AWARDS SPONSORS -2022 (FRIENDS)](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/awards-sponsors-2022-friends/) - [AWARDS SPONSORS- 2022 (NEIGHBORS)](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/awards-sponsors-2022-neighbors/) - [AWARD SPONSORS - 2023 -FULL VERSION](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/award-sponsors-2023-full-version/) - [Sponsors Cities IR 2022](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/sponsors-cities-ir-2022/) - [second row of panelist](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/second-row-of-panelist/) - [sponsors IR 2022](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/sponsors-ir-2022/) - [three column image layout](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/three-column-image-layout/) - [We also thank (header)](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/we-also-thank-header/) - [gratitude, peninsula clean energy, etc goes under We also...](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/gratitude-peninsula-clean-energy-etc-goes-under-we-also/) - [We also thank these sponsors for supporting our programs (header)](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/we-also-thank-these-sponsors-for-supporting-our-programs-header/) - [city listing](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/city-listing/) - [google and san mateo logo](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/google-and-san-mateo-logo/) - [We are grateful to our 2021 Indicators Report sponsors! 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[Special Contributors Box](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/special-contributors-box/) - [2022 Sponsorship Benefits container](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2022-sponsorship-benefits-container/) - [2022 learn more about sponsorship container](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2022-learn-more-about-sponsorship-container/) - [2022 Sponsorship Call container](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2022-sponsorship-call-container/) - [2022 (4/27) Friends sponsors](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2022-4-27-friends-sponsors/) - [2022 (4/27) Neighborhood sponsors container](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2022-4-27-neighborhood-sponsors-container/) - [2022 thanks to our sponsors container](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2022-thanks-to-our-sponsors-container/) - [2022 Community Sponsor Container](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2022-community-sponsor-container/) - [2022 auction container](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2022-auction-container/) - [Sample Auction Items header](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/sample-auction-items-header/) - [Auction Items](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/auction-items/) - [2022 learn more about previous sponsors contanire](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2022-learn-more-about-previous-sponsors-contanire/) - [2022 Sponsor Ask Container](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2022-sponsor-ask-container/) - [Previous Winners Learn More 2022 Elelement](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/previous-winners-learn-more-2022-container/) - To see all previous award winners, click here. - [2022 Awards Landing Page /awards container](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2022-awards-landing-page-awards-container/) - [Register for 2022 Awards Button](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/register-for-2022-awards-button/) - [2022 awards landing page full Column](https://sustainablesanmateo.org/fusion_element/2022-awards-landing-page-full-column/) - 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