At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, Governor Gavin Newsom is set to emphasize the economic advantages of subnational climate initiatives. As co-chair of both America Is All In and the U.S. Climate Alliance, he will engage with global leaders, deliver keynote remarks, and take part in discussions focused on advancing clean energy collaborations. His itinerary includes meetings with international counterparts to formalize alliances, promote nature-based climate strategies, and highlight Indigenous stewardship. He will also visit parts of the Amazon to connect with local conservation groups safeguarding one of the planet’s most crucial ecosystems.
California continues to demonstrate that environmental progress and economic growth can go hand in hand. Since 2000, the state has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 21%, while its GDP expanded by 81%, now ranking as the world’s fourth-largest economy. In 2023, two-thirds of California’s power came from clean sources—a milestone unmatched by any other major economy. The grid has frequently operated on 100% renewable electricity for portions of the day this year.
Under Newsom’s administration, energy storage capacity has skyrocketed to over 15,000 megawatts, marking a surge of more than 1,944%. Additionally, over 30,000 megawatts of new clean energy resources have been integrated into the system. The state now holds 30% of the battery storage needed by 2045 to achieve a fully decarbonized power supply.
COP30 serves as a global forum for governments, scientists, and civil society to accelerate climate action, particularly in the decade following the Paris Agreement. California’s role as a founding member of the Under2 Coalition and a leader in regional climate networks underscores how local governance can drive meaningful change, especially when national policies lag.
The California delegation includes key officials such as Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot, Agriculture Secretary Karen Ross, Public Utilities Commission President Alice Reynolds, Air Resources Board Chair Lauren Sanchez, and Tribal Affairs Secretary Christina Snider-Ashtari.
— news from California State Portal | CA.gov