California’s pathway to a low carbon future

California demonstrates to the world’s states and regions how they can play a major role in driving the transition to low-carbon.

The sunshine state’s ambitious approach to climate change is a powerful model to show others that states and regions can take a leading role in achieving the Paris Agreement goals.

Home to over 39 million people, what makes California’s progress so compelling is that it has proved that climate action can be accompanied by economic growth. It is already a global leader in energy efficiency and renewable energy – with over 30% of the state powered by renewables. With an annual economic output of $2.4 trillion, the state has the sixth-largest economy in the world. California is also leveraging further influence on climate action by fostering and building relationships with national and sub-national governments around the world.

The state is already making impressive progress on its emission reduction goals - by cutting 3.9 million metric tonnes CO2e between 2013 and 2015. It is also on track to surpass its 2020 target and has set a target to reduce emissions 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 and 80% below 1990 levels by 2050. It has also made broader commitments to develop a clean economy, and provide clean air and water for all residents.

As California takes steps to implement its ambitious emission reduction goals, other states and regions around the world can take note. Right now, energy consulting firm Energy + Environmental Economics (E3) are working on evaluating the feasibility and cost of the state meeting the targets. It is exploring how different mixes of technology and practices could work. At the same time the California Air Resources Board and other departments are delivering strong policy signals that will drive investments for a low carbon economy.

California aims to drive forward progress on climate action by developing policies and attracting investment through:

• Increasing energy efficiency in buildings and transportation and switching to lower carbon fuel sources in buildings and transportation;
• Producing lower carbon electricity and producing lower carbon liquid or gaseous fuels
• Reducing non-energy greenhouse gases.

Taking position as one of the best in class, California is leading the way for states and regions through measuring and setting clear targets to reduce its environmental impact. It is showing state and regional-level governments can play a crucial part in preparing for the low-carbon future.

In support of the state's ambitious climate goals, the California Department of General Services (DGS) has begun engaging key suppliers to disclose climate and water data through CDP's Supply Chain program. By leveraging its spend, the DGS can ensure that suppliers of all sizes, sectors and abilities are realizing the benefits of California's transition to a low-carbon economy.

In September 2018, the state of California will be hosting the Global Climate Action Summit, which will bring in various actors including state and local leaders to help strengthen the push for greater emissions reduction targets.

View California’s 2017 CDP response.