Making California’s cultural sector carbon neutral by 2030

Arts & Climate CA is identifying pathways to resources for frontline cultural organizations to increase their climate resiliency.

Dancers from Rhythmix Cultural Works' 'Rising Seas' project, choreographed by KT Nelson, photograph by Maurice Ramirez

Bridging Arts and Sustainability

The goal of Arts & Climate CA is to connect the cultural sector to the green economy—first in California, and then nationwide.

We are building the bridge between arts organizations and the significant state and federal decarbonization funds that already exist.  And connecting artists and community-based organizations to the resources they need to activate on climate change.

Data is key to unlocking climate change resources for cultural organizations. We are conducting a 16-month project to understand the climate change needs and impacts on the cultural sector.  We will:

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    Educate and Assess Local Needs

    Conduct in-depth needs assessments in 2-3 major cities, and 2-3 other climate-vulnerable regions of California.

    – Bay Area (July 2024–March 2025)

    – SoCal (January–October 2025)

    – Los Angeles and San Diego currently under development

    – Other regions TBD

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    Identify Strategies

    – Link decarbonization projects to existing funds.

    – Uncover and connect artists already working on climate.

    – Help movement builders activate.

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    Map Pathways to Resources

    – Convene community to co-create projects and partnerships.

    – Engage climate experts from diverse fields.

    – Link artists, cultural organizations, and communities working in this space to each other and to resources.

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    Conduct and Disseminate Statewide Work

    – Undertake CA statewide climate change impact survey in partnership with Americans for the Arts.

    – Document climate change impacts, needs, strategies, and resources across California.

    – Inspire other states to replicate and build on our research.

The Team

Denise Fairchild

2021 Climate
Breakthrough Awardee

Marcelle Hinand

Philanthropy &
Nonprofit Consultant

Susan Misra

Principal at
Aurora Commons

Way-Ting Chen

Co-Founder of
Blue Garnet

January 30, 2025

Arts & Climate CA and its partners would like to extend a special invitation to attend its Culture & Climate Exchange: World Café event taking place on January 30, 10:30am – 5:00pm at Oakstop. Please register here.

This event will be an opportunity to hear from those addressing the impact of climate change on their organizations and constituents and build community with your peers. Together, participants will exchange ideas on how they want to engage with climate change and what they need to advance that work.

Join Us

Project Partners & Funders