Celebrating Five Years of Climate & Sustainability in San Juan County

This July marks five years since San Juan County launched the Climate and Sustainability program with the creation of the Department of Environmental Stewardship —five years of building momentum, deepening partnerships, and working to advance meaningful action to protect our islands.

Over this period, the County has completed foundational work to strengthen our long‑term climate strategy. Among the highlights are the County’s first communitywide Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory, a transparent accounting of emissions that will guide future mitigation efforts, and the adoption of the Comprehensive Plan’s Climate Element, establishing climate resilience and emissions reduction as core components of County planning and decision‑making. The Climate Action Plan (CAP), currently under development, will bring that work to life with a prioritized plan for implementing climate goals and policies.

The program’s accomplishments have been shaped and supported by a robust Climate & Sustainability Advisory Committee, whose members represent diverse sectors of island expertise and experience. This group includes the County’s first youth representative, ensuring that our youth have a seat at the table and a voice in the decisions that will define their future. Collaboration and consultation with community partners have further guided and enhanced this critical work.

Together, we’re laying strong foundations and working to create new opportunities for meaningful action across departments and throughout the islands. Thank you to everyone who has contributed their time, expertise, and passion during these first five years. We look forward to building on this progress and continuing to advance a resilient, sustainable future for San Juan County.