Climate Action Events

Lean into courageous climate action through our ongoing educational events.

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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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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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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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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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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Santa Barbara Sun Day Celebration
Sep
21

Santa Barbara Sun Day Celebration

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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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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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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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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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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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 the Tissue Screening and Filmmaker Discussion
Oct
30

The Issue with the Tissue Screening and Filmmaker Discussion

Join CEC and Sierra Club Santa Barbara/Ventura for The Issue with the 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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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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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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Goleta Wildfire Hazard Zones, Risk & Readiness Public Presentation
Jun
11

Goleta Wildfire Hazard Zones, Risk & Readiness Public Presentation

Join us for an informative and engaging in-person presentation hosted by the City of Goleta, Santa Barbara County Fire Department, Fire Safe Council and Wildfire Resilience Collaborative. This interactive session will give you an inside look at local fire hazard maps and the risk reduction projects designed to keep our community safe.

Whether you're a parent, teacher, neighbor, or simply interested in learning more, this is a great opportunity to ask questions, stay informed, and connect with others who care about our shared safety and environment.

Funded by the State of California's 2022 Climate Action Initiative and a part of Santa Barbara County Wildfire Resilience Collaborative.

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Goleta Wildfire Hazard Zones, Risk & Readiness Public Presentation
Jun
9

Goleta Wildfire Hazard Zones, Risk & Readiness Public Presentation

Join us for an informative and engaging in-person presentation hosted by the City of Goleta, Santa Barbara County Fire Department, Fire Safe Council and Wildfire Resilience Collaborative. This interactive session will give you an inside look at local fire hazard maps and the risk reduction projects designed to keep our community safe.

Whether you're a parent, teacher, neighbor, or simply interested in learning more, this is a great opportunity to ask questions, stay informed, and connect with others who care about our shared safety and environment.

Funded by the State of California's 2022 Climate Action Initiative and a part of Santa Barbara County Wildfire Resilience Collaborative.

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Climate Fridays Santa Barbara
Jun
6

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. June's gathering will focus on actions for a healthy ocean in preparation for World Oceans Day on June 8. Stick around after the meeting for our quarterly happy hour to enjoy complimentary refreshments and network with the community.

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Environmental Justice Through Grassroots Activism
May
29

Environmental Justice Through Grassroots Activism

Join us for a conversation with grassroots activists about their on-the-ground efforts in the fight for environmental justice. MiniNature Reserve Founder Diego Magaña and Climate Corps Fellow Solimar Gutierrez will share their insights on creating impactful change in Oxnard and surrounding underserved communities. Topics will include grassroots activism, guerrilla gardening, and food sovereignty.

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An Evening of Wild Hope
May
15

An Evening of Wild Hope

The PBS series Wild Hope spotlights changemakers around the world who are restoring our Earth and reimagining our relationship with nature. Through captivating storytelling, episodes explore bold solutions and collaborations, showcase nature’s resilience, and spark renewed hope for the future of our planet. We invite you to join us for special screenings and an evening of inspiration, emceed by local author and Pullitzer Prize winner Ed Humes.

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The Captain's Table: Marvelous Halibut
May
13

The Captain's Table: Marvelous Halibut

Celebrate the Central Coast and set sail on a culinary voyage, all while supporting the Community Environmental Council, at Moby Dick Restaurant's Captain's Table dinner series. Reserve your spot for this four-course prix fixe feast, where halibut “takes center plate.” Featuring curated wine pairings by Margerum Wines and rich stories from local seafood experts, including Marine Biologist Dr. Kim Selkoe, expect an intimate evening of fantastic food, great company, and eye-opening insights. Thanks to a generous bequest from one of Moby Dick’s founders, CEC holds ownership shares in the restaurant — so every meal helps fund local climate action.

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How To Live Simply and Sustainably with Robin Greenfield
May
4

How To Live Simply and Sustainably with Robin Greenfield

Join truth seeker, activist, and social reformer Robin Greenfield as he shares reflections from his radical experiment living in Los Angeles with no money and only a few borrowed items. Now three months into his non-ownership journey, Robin is going on tour, inviting us to join him in questioning consumer culture, reconnecting with the Earth, and exploring more intentional ways of living. Co-hosted by CEC, this event offers a rare opportunity to engage with one of today’s boldest voices in sustainability and hear about his immersive experience firsthand. 

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Turtle Walker Film Screening
May
2

Turtle Walker Film Screening

In the late 1970s, Satish Bhaskar embarked on an epic journey along India's coastline and the spectacular Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where he uncovered the vital nesting beaches of sea turtles. During his death-defying quest, he unravels mysteries surrounding these enigmatic ocean creatures – and sets out to save them from extinction. After a devastating tsunami strikes in 2004, Bhaskar grapples with a pressing question: What happens to sea turtles when their nesting beaches disappear? Introduction by director Taira Malaney.

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Climate Fridays Santa Barbara
May
2

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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Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival
Apr
26
to Apr 27

Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival

  • 1400 Santa Barbara Street Santa Barbara, CA, 93101 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Now in its 55th year, the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival is one of the longest-running Earth Day celebrations in the country and is one of the largest Earth Day festivals on the West Coast. Attracting over 30,000 people and 150+ eco-friendly exhibitors each year, the festival features two days of live music and speakers, CEC’s Environmental Hero Award ceremony, Green Car Show and Ride & Drive experiences, and family-friendly programming. Presented by the Community Environmental Council and CarpEvents.

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Regenerative Agriculture: Building Soil Health & Climate Resilience
Apr
18

Regenerative Agriculture: Building Soil Health & Climate Resilience

This event will explore how regenerative practices—such as cover cropping, composting, agroforestry, and holistic grazing—are transforming agriculture to enhance soil health, boost biodiversity, and increase climate resilience. Whether you're a farmer, land steward, policymaker, or simply curious about sustainable food systems, this is your chance to learn from leading voices in the movement.

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Environmental Justice Through Grassroots Activism
Apr
17

Environmental Justice Through Grassroots Activism

This event has been postponed until May 29, 2025.

Join us for a conversation with grassroots activists about their on-the-ground efforts in the fight for environmental justice. MiniNature Reserve Founder Diego Magaña and Climate Corps Fellow Solimar Gutierrez will share their insights on creating impactful change in Oxnard and surrounding underserved communities. Topics will include grassroots activism, guerrilla gardening, and food sovereignty.

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