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TRANSLATE

Using Translation

The County of San Mateo has added a translation feature developed by Google Translate to assist web visitors in understanding information on this website in a variety of foreign languages. Please be aware that Google Translate, a free third party service which the County does not control, provides automated computer translations that may not give you an exact translation. The County cannot guarantee the accuracy of translations through Google Translate so translations should not be considered exact and only used as a rough guide. Anyone relying on information obtained from Google Translate does so at his or her own risk. The County disclaims and will not accept any liability for damages or losses of any kind caused by the use of the Google Translate feature.

community member looking at brochures at event outreach table hosted by Sustainability Department staff
CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION
Solving for tomorrow.

Climate Change Action

Climate change impacts everyone in San Mateo County, from rising sea levels to increased wildfire risk and extreme weather. Together, we can take meaningful steps to build a resilient future for all.

How to Take Action

Reduce greenhouse gas emissions with our resources.

energy-efficient electric induction stovetop range in home kitchen

Electrification & Energy Efficiency

Switching from conventional gas appliances to electric appliances can help save money and cut greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. Learn more about rebates and incentives provided by the Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN).

We offer resources like the Check-It-Out! Home Energy & Water Saving Toolkit, available in libraries across San Mateo County. This toolkit provides free tools to help you assess and improve your home’s energy and water efficiency. Reserve a toolkit from your local library and start saving today.

Youth Climate Ambassador Leadership Program students working together at a table with cards for climate activity

Youth Climate Action

The San Mateo County Youth Climate Ambassadors (YCA) provides high school students with opportunities to learn about climate issues and implement solutions in their communities.

box of artichokes and eggplants

Preventing Food Waste

When excess food ends up in landfills, it releases methane, a greenhouse gas more potent than carbon dioxide. By reducing food waste and composting kitchen scraps, you can help combat climate change.

group of people watch an induction cooktop demonstration

Upcoming Events

View our events calendar to see upcoming free workshops and community events to connect with others passionate about building a sustainable future.

Steps to Take Climate Action

Create a more resilient and sustainable San Mateo County.

toolbox filled with Energy Toolkit energy and water efficiency supplies and guidebooks for residents of San Mateo County

Assess Your Home’s Energy and Water Efficiency

Reserve your toolkit
electric heat pump installed outside of a house

Get Rebates to Switch to Electric

Resources to get started
San Mateo County Sustainability Department event closeup of stainless steel pan on single burner electric induction portable stove

Try an Induction Cooktop for Free

Borrow one today
group of approximately 50 students and staff in the Youth Climate Ambassadors program

Become a Youth Climate Ambassador

Apply for the next cohort

The Latest News & Events

Compost Workshop
Jun
27
Compost Workshop

Learn how easy and fun it is to recycle your fruit and vegetable scraps, leaves, and plant cuttings into compost in these free workshops! These workshops teach composting options suitable for those with or without a backyard. Apartment dwellers welcome! Compost provides valuable nutrients for your garden soil, helps retain moisture, which saves water, prevents erosion, loosens clay and compacted soils for better drainage, and suppresses weeds. It is rewarding to know you are turning what some consider waste into precious organic material for your garden.

Discounts and rebates for backyard compost and worm compost bins will be distributed to San Mateo County residents!

COMPOST WORKSHOP

Date: June 27, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Foster City Community Garden
Register here.

LEARN MORE
Short christmas tree propped up against a wooden fence next to a green compost bin.

Holiday Recycling Guide: How to Recycle Trees,…

Once the holidays wind down, it’s important to dispose of trees, lights, and decorations properly so they can be…
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Family of three walking along the shoreline at Cooley Landing in East Palo Alto.

How King Tides Help Us Prepare for the Future

In January, we had an amazing Coffee and King Tides event at Cooley Landing in East Palo Alto! We…
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Collage with four nature images and text in middle that reads '2026 Earth Month'

2026 Earth Month Events

Happy Earth Month! As we step further into spring, the month of April reminds us to celebrate our…
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