Climate Action Events

Lean into courageous climate action through our ongoing educational events.

Climate Fridays Santa Barbara
Oct
3

Climate Fridays Santa Barbara

Join CEC, the Society of Fearless Grandmothers Santa Barbara, and the Santa Barbara Sierra Club on the first Friday of each month to gather with fellow climate activists, students, allies, community partners, and friends.

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Profit Meets Planet: Get certified as a GREEN business
Oct
10

Profit Meets Planet: Get certified as a GREEN business

Join us for a 1-hour Green Business Program Info Session facilitated by Sustainability Consultant Kori Nielsen to learn about the California Green Business Network (CAGBN) and its local programs along the Central Coast. The CAGBN helps businesses adopt sustainable practices while saving money, improving employee wellness, and gaining marketing visibility. In this session, you’ll discover why businesses pursue certification, hear success stories, and get a step-by-step overview of the certification process — including enrollment, technical assistance, and typical timelines. Attendees will also get a walk through of the core checklist categories (energy, waste, water, pollution prevention, and more). You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and register to start your green business journey. Plus, certified businesses are eligible for an exclusive $1,000 Intuit Grant to support sustainability upgrades!

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A Conversation with Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant, author of “Wild Life: Finding My Purpose in an Untamed World"
Oct
10

A Conversation with Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant, author of “Wild Life: Finding My Purpose in an Untamed World"

Join renowned wildlife ecologist, National Geographic Society Fellow, and storyteller Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant for an intimate evening as she shares the journey behind her memoir, Wild Life: Finding My Purpose in an Untamed World. During this lecture, Dr. Wynn-Grant will explore the constantly evolving relationship between humans, animals, and the Earth. From a nature-deprived childhood in urban American to becoming a trailblazing scientist working to protect our endangered species, this event, co-hosted by CEC and Central Coast Riviera Roses, offers a rare opportunity to hear her poignant, powerful, and deeply personal story firsthand. Following the lecture, guests will have the opportunity to meet Dr. Wynn-Grant during a meet-and-greet and book signing.

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Central Coast Sustainability Summit
Oct
15

Central Coast Sustainability Summit

Join us at the 2025 Central Coast Sustainability Summit, where keynote speakers will inspire agencies and thought leaders to create a shared vision and accountability for sustainability efforts in California’s Central Coast. Breakout sessions will address topics related to climate resilience, energy, waste management, and sustainable food systems. The event will bring together key players from local institutions and government agencies to build collaborations for a sustainable Central Coast.

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National Drive Electric Month: Thousand Oaks Rotary Club Street Fair & Electric Vehicle Showcase
Oct
19

National Drive Electric Month: Thousand Oaks Rotary Club Street Fair & Electric Vehicle Showcase

  • Booth in front of Moorpark Rd and Brazil St (Chick-fil-A Parking Lot) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

If you're considering an electric vehicle, now is the time to take advantage of thousands of dollars in savings. Join us at this National Drive Electric Month event to learn about EV rebates, incentive programs, and the benefits of switching to an electric vehicle.

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Make Polluters Pay Meeting
Oct
29

Make Polluters Pay Meeting

Polluters Pay Santa Barbara is aiming to build on the statewide momentum to pass the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund bill that has been introduced in California. The bill will take the burden off of taxpayers by making fossil fuel companies pay for their role in natural disasters fueled by climate change. Join us for monthly calls to action to advocate for legislation that will fund natural disaster recovery, resilience, and a clean energy transition in our communities.

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The Issue with Tissue Screening and Filmmaker Discussion
Oct
30

The Issue with Tissue Screening and Filmmaker Discussion

Join CEC and Sierra Club Santa Barbara/Ventura for The Issue with Tissue film screening, followed by an enlightening discussion with writer, director, and producer Michael Zelniker. This documentary reveals the powerful connection between the boreal forest and the Indigenous Peoples who call it home — and the deforestation threats they now face from the toilet paper industry. Scientists, activists, and the First Nations Elders and Leaders speak out together on why conserving this ancient forest is not only necessary, but deeply human.

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Climate Fridays Santa Barbara
Nov
7

Climate Fridays Santa Barbara

Join CEC, the Society of Fearless Grandmothers Santa Barbara, and the Santa Barbara Sierra Club on the first Friday of each month to gather with fellow climate activists, students, allies, community partners, and friends.

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Youth Climate Workshop
Nov
8

Youth Climate Workshop

Students in grades six through 12 who want to take meaningful climate action are invited to a free, hands-on workshop at CEC’s Environmental Hub. Join CEC staff and local leaders to dive into environmental policy advocacy and learn how to use your voice to stand up for climate justice. You’ll hear from inspiring guest speakers from the Environmental Defense Center and Make Polluters Pay Santa Barbara as they share how their organizations are leading the charge on high impact campaigns in our communities.

A lively panel discussion with local elected officials will give you an opportunity to learn what they are doing on environmental action and connect with them one-on-one afterwards. Co-hosted by CEC and Santa Barbara High School’s Environmental Advocacy Club, the workshop will include complimentary snacks and drinks, opportunities to collaborate with peers, and tools to help you lead positive change in your community.

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Climate Fridays Santa Barbara
Dec
5

Climate Fridays Santa Barbara

Join CEC, the Society of Fearless Grandmothers Santa Barbara, and the Santa Barbara Sierra Club on the first Friday of each month to gather with fellow climate activists, students, allies, community partners, and friends.

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Green Gala After Party (Open to all 21+)
Sep
27

Green Gala After Party (Open to all 21+)

  • The Bakery Block in Santa Barbara's Funk Zone (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Hosted at one of the newest hotspots in Santa Barbara's Funk Zone, the Green Gala After Party welcomes the public to join us for a high-energy dance party under the stars, featuring live music from The Academy, complimentary drinks from local makers, and the chance to connect and celebrate with climate champions and changemakers. A suggested donation of $35 gets you in the door and helps power a climate-safe future for our community and beyond. Bring a friend and meet us on the dance floor! 21+ only.

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CEC's Green Gala
Sep
27

CEC's Green Gala

  • The Bakery Block in Santa Barbara's Funk Zone (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Green Gala is CEC's premiere annual fundraising celebration, bringing together over 250 community leaders, philanthropists, and climate activists in support of bold climate action. This year’s theme is resilience, symbolized by the Matilija poppy, to honor our collective strength as we face intensifying environmental challenges together. Keynote speaker Los Angeles County Fire Captain Sheila Kelliher Berkoh, will share inspiring stories from the frontlines of how communities like Santa Barbara provided resources and refuge during the devastating L.A. fires. Guests will enjoy a VIP cocktail reception, climate-smart cuisine, live entertainment, and an exclusive auction — all in support of a climate-safe future for California’s Central Coast. The After Party kicks off at 8:00 p.m., so stick around for an unforgettable night of live music by The Academy, dancing, and celebration.

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Make Polluters Pay Meeting
Sep
24

Make Polluters Pay Meeting

Polluters Pay Santa Barbara is aiming to build on the statewide momentum to pass the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund bill that has been introduced in California. The bill will take the burden off of taxpayers by making fossil fuel companies pay for their role in natural disasters fueled by climate change. Join us for monthly calls to action to advocate for legislation that will fund natural disaster recovery, resilience, and a clean energy transition in our communities.

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Santa Barbara Sun Day Celebration
Sep
21

Santa Barbara Sun Day Celebration

  • Santa Barbara Library’s Michael Towbes Plaza (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join us for a local celebration of clean energy progress as part of the national Sun Day of action, led by Third Act. This free, festival-style event will feature speakers, kids’ activities, community booths, and resources to help electrify your home or business. Come take part in building a sun-powered future for Santa Barbara County and beyond! Hosted by CEC, Sierra Club Santa Barbara/Ventura, the Society of Fearless Grandmothers, Clean Coalition, the City of Santa Barbara, the City of Santa Barbara’s Sustainability and Resilience Department, and the Santa Barbara Public Library,

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TGIF! Happy Hour
Sep
12

TGIF! Happy Hour

Join us at the Environmental Defense Center’s September TGIF! happy hour to meet and mingle with environmentally minded community members. Enjoy live music, food and drinks, and engage with local non-profit and environmental organizations, elected officials, and climate leaders from throughout the South Central Coast. CEC is a partner on this event. 

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National Drive Electric Month: EV Incentives Resource Fair
Sep
10

National Drive Electric Month: EV Incentives Resource Fair

If you're considering an electric vehicle, now is the time to take advantage of thousands of dollars in savings. Join us at our National Drive Electric Month EV Incentives Resource Fair to discover EV and e-bikes options, check out rebates and incentive programs, and get a one-on-one consultation with CEC staff to see if you qualify for savings. Enjoy food, refreshments, and chances to win prizes at this free community event — all while learning how switching to electric can help power a positive climate future. Bilingual interpretation available.

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Become a CEC Climate Steward
Sep
9

Become a CEC Climate Steward

Taking bold measures to stop the climate crisis requires many of us — non-profit staff, professionals, recent college graduates, retirees, and community members — to work together. Anyone can be a Climate Steward! Register for our fall 2025 course to transform concern for our planet into meaningful local action. You’ll join a cohort of motivated climate advocates, explore solutions through lessons and field trips, and design a personal Stewardship Project that makes a difference in your community. 

The Community Environmental Council's Climate Stewards certification course is offered in September, January, and April.

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Climate Fridays Santa Barbara
Sep
5

Climate Fridays Santa Barbara

Join CEC, the Society of Fearless Grandmothers Santa Barbara, and the Santa Barbara Sierra Club on the first Friday of each month. At these events, climate activists, students, community partners, and friends gather to learn about regional climate change issues and how to take collective action to protect our planet. September's gathering will focus on the national Sun Day day of action event on September 21, a celebration of the power of clean energy. Learn about plans for our local event at the Santa Barbara Public Library and how you can participate in the clean energy revolution. Stick around after the meeting for our quarterly happy hour to enjoy complimentary refreshments and network with the community.

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Virtual Make Polluters Pay Meeting
Aug
27

Virtual Make Polluters Pay Meeting

Polluters Pay Santa Barbara is aiming to build on the statewide momentum to pass the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund bill that has been introduced in California. The bill will take the burden off of taxpayers by making fossil fuel companies pay for their role in natural disasters fueled by climate change. Join us for monthly calls to action to advocate for legislation that will fund natural disaster recovery, resilience, and a clean energy transition in our communities.

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Women Who Work in Water: Flash Talk & Happy Hour
Aug
26

Women Who Work in Water: Flash Talk & Happy Hour

Join us for the next Women Who Work in Water gathering. This month’s event will feature a flash talk with inspiring women leaders in the environmental space, including Gracie White (Conservation International Ventures), Kaira Wallace (Ocean Rainforest), and Lauren French (Sea League). Following the talk and Q&A, stick around for happy hour to connect, share ideas, and build community. Whether you’re a professional, student, or simply curious about ocean and environmental careers, all are welcome to join this evening of networking, learning, and empowerment. The event is co-hosted by CEC and Women in the Water, a Santa Barbara–based group creating spaces for womxn to celebrate their bond with the ocean and participate in ocean stewardship.

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Climate Fridays Santa Barbara
Aug
1

Climate Fridays Santa Barbara

Join CEC, the Society of Fearless Grandmothers Santa Barbara, and the Santa Barbara Sierra Club on the first Friday of each month to gather with fellow climate activists, students, allies, community partners, and friends.

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Ready for Wildfire: Smart Strategies for Fire-Safe Living
Jul
22

Ready for Wildfire: Smart Strategies for Fire-Safe Living

Join a panel of countywide experts for a timely discussion on wildfire resilience and how to prepare your home, landscape, and neighborhood to better withstand future wildfires. The virtual event and panel will be hosted on Zoom, facilitated by Santa Barbara Botanic Garden and feature Santa Barbara County Supervisor Laura Capps, Santa Barbara County Fire Captain Chris Olmstead, and more. Walk away with practical, actionable steps to reduce wildfire risk and discover valuable community resources. Live Spanish interpretation will be provided.

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Single-Use Planet Santa Barbara Premiere and Panel Discussion
Jul
17

Single-Use Planet Santa Barbara Premiere and Panel Discussion

Don't miss the Santa Barbara premiere of Single-Use Planet, a powerful documentary exploring the political, economic, health, and environmental impacts of single-use plastics. Inspired by jaw-dropping encounters with massive ocean plastic gyres, director Steve Cowan exposes the full lifecycle of single-use plastics, from petrochemical plants to polluted coastlines. Following the film, CEC and Santa Barbara Channelkeeper staff will lead a panel discussion on local plastic pollution challenges and ongoing efforts to reduce single-use plastic distribution.

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Climate Fridays Santa Barbara
Jul
11

Climate Fridays Santa Barbara

Join CEC, the Society of Fearless Grandmothers Santa Barbara, and the Santa Barbara Sierra Club on the first Friday of each month. At these events, climate activists, students, community partners, and friends gather to learn about regional climate change issues and how to take collective action to protect our planet. July's gathering will focus on plastic reduction and feature talks by CEC and Santa Barbara Channelkeeper.

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Plastic-Free Expo
Jun
25

Plastic-Free Expo

The Community Environmental Council and Santa Barbara Channelkeeper’s 4th annual Plastic-Free Expo features over a dozen local organizations, businesses, and government agencies offering information and resources for eliminating plastic. Join us to learn how to reduce plastic in your life, enjoy free refreshments, and chances to win eco-friendly prizes! 

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Polluters Pay Santa Barbara Inaugural Meeting
Jun
24

Polluters Pay Santa Barbara Inaugural Meeting

Polluters Pay Santa Barbara is aiming to build on the statewide momentum to pass the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund bill that has been introduced in California. The bill will take the burden off of taxpayers by making fossil fuel companies pay for their role in natural disasters fueled by climate change. Join us for an informational session on bill progress and tactics to advocate for legislation that will fund natural disaster recovery, resilience and a clean energy transition in our communities.

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