The City of Irvine was selected for the 2021 Beacon Spotlight Award and Beacon Leadership & Innovation Award by the Institute of Local Government. The City received the 2021 Beacon Spotlight Silver Level Award for its 7% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions for City operations. In addition, Irvine was selected as a winner for the 2021 Beacon Leadership & Innovation Award for its Environmental Program’s innovation in clean transportation.

The Institute of Local Government’s Beacon Program provides recognition and support for California local agencies working to build more vibrant and sustainable communities. Beacon honors voluntary efforts by cities, counties and special districts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save energy, and adopt policies that promote sustainability.

“I continue to be impressed with the City’s leadership and achievements to halt climate change and increase sustainability,” said Mayor Farrah N. Khan. “Changes of this magnitude do not happen in a silo, and I’m equally impressed with community members’ dedication to preserving Irvine and all of its resources.”

The City of Irvine is committed to sustainability and climate change. In August 2021, Irvine’s City Council unanimously adopted a climate resolution addressing climate change in Irvine’s environment, values, and energy resources; the Irvine ACHIEVES resolution. The resolution sets climate goals for the City and includes a carbon neutrality goal of 2030.

Additionally, the City is an awardee of the Cool City Challenge initiative and will receive $1 million in grant funding and technical assistance for climate efforts. The City of Irvine has partnered with over 25 community organizations and registered over 200 volunteers who are interested and committed to climate action in Irvine. Cool Block teams will meet, discuss, and implement sustainability concepts on topics related to energy efficiency, water conservation, emergency preparedness, social justice, and more. Learn more about this program at The Cool Block Journey | Cool Block.

For more information about the City of Irvine’s Environmental Programs, please visit cityofirvine.org/ep. To learn more about the Cool City Challenge and sign-up to volunteer, email EnvironmentalPrograms@cityofirvine.org.