California Strategic Growth Council’s Post

The recent announcement of new warehouse regulations set to take effect in California by 2026 is causing significant concern among both environmental and business groups in Fresno. As our state aims to balance economic growth with sustainability, it's clear that these changes will impact the local community and economy. Stakeholders are urged to engage in the conversation to shape the future of our urban landscapes. Read more about the implications here: https://okt.to/KYfuEQ.

We are excited to highlight our ongoing collaboration with Elizabeth Schuster and Sustainable Economies Consulting, LLC! For a decade, we’ve worked together to push boundaries in environmental impact, combining Elizabeth’s expertise in environmental economics and strategic planning with LCS’ focus on DEIJ and community assessments. From our transformative project with Healthy Ocean Coalition to our current initiatives, we’re proving that integrating diverse perspectives, economic insights, and strong DEIJ principles creates lasting positive change for nature and communities. Here are some example outcomes you can get out of our collaboration: - Better understanding of how to integrate trust-building into your strategic plan - A diverse Board that better represents the communities your organization serves - Governance structures that center equity - An inclusive approach to advocacy that raises the number of people advocating for your critical issues Together, we’re revolutionizing strategic planning and creating more inclusive, impactful solutions for conservation practitioners. Here’s to many more years of successful partnership! #Collaboration #SustainableEconomics #DEIJ #Strategic Planning #Conservation Planning

We are excited to highlight our ongoing collaboration with Elizabeth Schuster and Sustainable Economies Consulting, LLC! For a decade, we’ve worked together to push boundaries in environmental impact, combining Elizabeth’s expertise in environmental economics and strategic planning with LCS’ focus on DEIJ and community assessments.   From our transformative project with Healthy Ocean Coalition to our current initiatives, we’re proving that integrating diverse perspectives, economic insights, and strong DEIJ principles creates lasting positive change for nature and communities. Here are some example outcomes you can get out of our collaboration: - Better understanding of how to integrate trust-building into your strategic plan - A diverse Board that better represents the communities your organization serves - Governance structures that center equity - An inclusive approach to advocacy that raises the number of people advocating for your critical issues   Together, we’re revolutionizing strategic planning and creating more inclusive, impactful solutions for conservation practitioners. Here’s to many more years of successful partnership!   #Collaboration #SustainableEconomics #DEIJ #Strategic Planning #Conservation Planning 

The generation-long process of becoming a sustainable city is imperiled by short-term, politically expedient retreats from forward-looking public policies.

Must-read op-ed from Terrance L. Bankston on the need to advance environmental justice and better community engagement at our nations' ports--and how EPA's recently-launched $3 billion Clean Ports Program can help. "it’s up to the region’s Port Authority to apply for this funding and work with groups like the South Ward Environmental Alliance, Pacific Environment, and Parents Engaging Parents to make the transition to a clean energy economy. Our environmental justice communities, climate and the planet can’t wait." https://lnkd.in/eAPTg3XK

We are excited to delve into one of the most pressing topics in UK planning at our first Policy Talks: Labour’s Housing and Planning Policies webinar: Grey Belt vs Green Belt. Key Discussion Points: - Defining Grey Belt and Green Belt: Understand the distinctions and implications of each. - Policy Impacts: How current policies affect Grey Belt and Green Belt areas. - Development vs Conservation: Balancing urban development needs with environmental conservation. - Case Studies: Real-world examples of Grey Belt and Green Belt planning decisions. - Future Outlook: Predictions and potential changes under the new government. Why This Matters: With increasing pressure on urban areas to expand, understanding the nuances of Grey Belt and Green Belt planning is crucial for sustainable development. This webinar will provide insights into how these areas are managed and the policy changes that could reshape their future. 📅 Date & Time: July 31, 11:00-12:00 👉 Register Now: https://lnkd.in/eNrDbk2j Join us for an in-depth discussion and gain valuable insights from leading experts in the field. Don't miss this chance to be part of an important conversation on the future of UK planning. #PolicyTalks #Webinar #GreyBelt #GreenBelt #UKPlanning #HousingPolicy

“The fact that the program was oriented around quantifying ‘at least 40% of the overall benefits of investment’ rather than a more straightforward assessment of 40% of funding makes the program difficult to track and quantify,” says Chris Espinosa, the legislative director for the Climate and Energy Program at Earthjustice, an environmental law firm. The EPA deferred comment to the White House Council on Environmental Quality, which did not respond to direct inquiries about the total amount of money spent through Justice40 or whether the 40% target was being met. Instead, Jalonne L. White-Newsome, White House environmental justice officer, explained that the “Justice40 Initiative is not a one-time investment, nor a single pot of money.” It is “transforming the way the federal government reaches communities.” Espinosa agrees the approach “has merit,” saying the program’s emphasis on partnering with community-based organizations “is a very positive and welcome change.” Most federal climate grants are accessible only to municipalities or corporations; the most unprecedented aspect of Justice40 has been the allocation of $3 billion in grant money for community-based nonprofits like Blacks in Green, including $200 million in technical assistance to help groups apply. Theoretically, this process cuts out much of the bureaucracy that has defined federal grant-making and allows those who know the problems to directly address their community’s unique challenges, fostering tangible, immediate improvements. In practice, concerns about how quickly funding and resources are actually reaching local organizations remain — particularly as the future of the program is rocky." 

Meet Dr. Marco Rodriguez. 🖐 Marco is a Managing Consultant at Ramboll working with our air quality and environmental justice teams. Marco was born and raised in Mexico before relocating to the US for his PhD at the University of California, Irvine. He has first-hand experience working in air quality issues both the US and Mexico. “Growing up in Mexico allows me to bring different perspectives to conversations in the US. I was inspired to get involved with EJ projects because of the potential to improve the health and environment of marginalized people. Many of these communities communicate primarily in Spanish, so I think my background - both technical and cultural - is invaluable for these kinds of projects,” Marco says. Addressing the EJ concerns of several communities will not only require a better understanding of communities that have historically been subjected to additional pollution and other stressors, but also the ability to analyze and interpret the data for disparate audiences such as clients, policymakers, and the communities directly involved in these concerns. “We face the challenge of explaining the issues and inequalities in simple terms to an audience that may not be composed of experts but that is still eager to hear what risks they may face.” In addition, ensuring the fair treatment of these disadvantaged communities will require additional time and resources that several companies may not have considered in the past. Addressing environmental justice concerns will require some companies change how they typically operate. Marco’s advice? “Keep in the loop of regulatory developments and when appropriate participate directly in the process because your perspective is also important.” #meettheexpert #brightminds #proactiveEJ #airquality #EJatRamboll #environmentaljustice 

Celebrating a Historic Milestone in Environmental Justice At the stroke of midnight, a transformative chapter in environmental justice unfolded. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Community Change Grants (CCG) Program officially closed its proposal submission window. This moment marks the culmination of months of dedication, collaboration, and vision from communities across the nation, united in the pursuit of a healthier, more equitable future. With over $2 billion in funding, this program stands as a beacon of hope for disadvantaged communities grappling with environmental challenges like pollution, climate change, and systemic disinvestment. The proposals submitted are not just applications; they are blueprints for change. From reducing urban heat islands and improving air and water quality to building climate resilience and economic opportunities, these projects promise to uplift communities for generations to come. I am deeply proud to have been a part of leading such a historic and impactful initiative. While the communities and teams driving these projects did most of the heavy lifting, it was an honor to guide them and witness their passion and commitment firsthand. Knowing that my efforts helped some communities secure the awards they so desperately need fills me with immense pride. This effort wouldn't have been possible without the countless hours invested by technical assistance providers, community organizers, development directors, engagement managers, coordinators, and leaders who worked tirelessly to empower their communities. Some key highlights: Historic funding scale: Approximately $2 billion allocated under the Inflation Reduction Act, with grants ranging from $1 million to $20 million. Unprecedented collaboration: Communities partnered with nonprofits, local governments, tribes, and academic institutions to craft innovative, community-driven solutions. A focus on capacity building: Even those unable to meet this year's deadline now stand better equipped with the knowledge and skills to pursue future opportunities. This may be a once-in-a-lifetime program, but its impact will echo far beyond this moment. Together, we are addressing environmental injustices and building the foundation for a more sustainable, inclusive future. To all who were part of this journey, thank you. The power of community-driven change is undeniable. Let’s continue to champion environmental justice and ensure that no community is left behind. #EnvironmentalJustice #ClimateAction #CommunityChangeGrants #EPA #Collaboration #Innovation

BerryDunn assisted Orange County, NC, in facilitating its first countywide strategic plan to create a cohesive vision for the future. Gain insight into how our #localgovernment experts identified key objectives and actionable strategies to overcome #communityhealth, #publictransportation, environmental #sustainability concerns, and more. https://bit.ly/3Y1jQ0U