Community Climate Action Plan And Safety Element Update

photos of different locations in Alameda County

About

Collapse of Redwood Road in Castro Valley during January 2023 atmospheric river.

Photo credit: Alameda County Fire Department

Introduction

Many residents of unincorporated Alameda County, from the Eden Area and Castro Valley to the rural east county communities, are experiencing firsthand the health and safety impacts of climate change. From flooding to extreme heat to wildfires, natural hazards are worsening as climate change intensifies. To support resilient, climate smart unincorporated communities, the County is in the process of updating its Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP) and Safety Element. Previous version of these documents are available to view here.

What is a Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP)?

Serves as a roadmap for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from unincorporated areas
Identifies existing and projected GHG emissions
Sets GHG reduction targets
Establishes policies and actions to meet reduction targets
Integrates climate adaptation and resilience strategies
Considers environmental justice priorities
Provides an implementation program

What is a Safety Element?

Is part of the County's General Plan to provide community protection
Identifies existing and project hazards (flooding, extreme heat, wildfires)
Minimizes human injury, loss of life, property damage, economic/social dislocation
Addresses evacuation routes
Identifies climate change vulnerabilities
Considers environmental justice priorities
Provides goals, policies, objectives, and implementation measures

What areas of the County are impacted by this plan update?

The Planning area for the CCAP and Safety Element update includes all of unincorporated Alameda County:

Ashland
Castro Valley
Cherryland
Fairview
Hayward Acres
San Lorenzo
Sunol
Dublin unincorporated area
Livermore unincorporated area
Pleasanton unincorporated area