California Climate Emergency
As the 5th largest economy in the world and a major oil and gas producer, California has an important role to play in building a future beyond fossil fuels. California has a reputation as an environmental leader, and has already started to chart a path forward in combating climate change. But California is one of the only oil-producing states in the United States without a minimum distance requirement between oil wells and homes, schools, hospitals, and daycare centers. California also produces some of the dirtiest oil in the country, polluting our planet and threatening the health of millions of Californians — disproportionately impacting Black, Latinx, Indigenous, and low-income communities.
In 2021, Governor Gavin Newsom took major steps to move California off fossil fuels and halt the dangerous practice of neighborhood drilling. In April 2021, the governor announced a goal to phase out oil production by no later than 2045; then in October 2021, he unveiled a plan to halt all new oil and gas drilling within 3,200 feet of communities. While these moves are historic and precedent-setting, California still has much to do in the transition off fossil fuels, while simultaneously protecting workers and communities.
That’s why Greenpeace USA — alongside a coalition of 750+ environmental, public health, environmental justice, and labor groups — is calling on Governor Newsom to follow these promising first steps with bold action to move the state beyond oil once and for all.
STOP new fossil fuel projects
Announce the end of new permitting for oil and gas extraction, fossil fuel infrastructure, or petrochemical projects in California. The time is now to stop making the climate crisis worse with new drilling. Turn off the tap and stop fueling climate chaos.
DROP existing production
Set a national and global precedent by becoming the first oil-producing state to announce a phase-out of existing production in line with the Paris climate goals, while delivering the funding and programs to ensure a just and equitable transition that protects workers, communities, and the economy.
ROLL out setback limits
Begin the fossil fuel phaseout in places that are currently suffering most from the impacts of fossil fuel extraction — by creating a 3,200-foot health and safety buffer zone between new and existing fossil-fuel infrastructure and homes, schools, and other sensitive sites.
Call on Governor Newsom to take the next step toward real climate and environmental justice for California and lead the US, and the world toward a more livable, equitable and stable future!
Jane Fonda talks with environmental lawyer Kassie Siegel about California’s dirty secret: its massive oil production. They discuss how the oil industry undercuts California’s progress on climate change and poisons the air we breathe and the water we drink—and what Gov. Gavin Newsom needs to do to stop the pollution.
Text JANE to 877-877 to take action with Jane Fonda & Greenpeace USA and receive updates for virtual Fire Drill Fridays!
South Los Angeles Resident and STAND-LA organizer Don Martin lives 300 feet from an oil and gas site owned by Sentinel Peak Resources. In February 2020, he addressed a crowd during a Fire Drill Friday rally to share his story of living on the frontlines of fossil fuel extraction in California and the very real toll it’s taken on his loved ones.
California lawmakers are considering a state bill, AB 345, that would require the state to enact a public health and safety buffer zone from fossil fuel extraction sites and the communities they impact. Read the powerful joint opinion piece that Don authored with Jane Fonda, calling on California lawmakers to say NO to neighborhood drilling and say #YESonAB345.
California Climate Action Academy: Introduction to Non-Violence
California Climate Action Academy: Basics of Action Planning
In this video, we will go over the essentials of direct action planning. Join us as we think through the steps it takes to get from an idea to execution, and consider issues you may not have thought of yet. We will also talk about where and when your action can be most influential, and how to start thinking through opportunities near you.
California Climate Action Academy: Creative Messaging & Banners
Here you’ll learn how to make effective messaging and visuals in a creative way. This is the production phase of direct action, and making your message clear and beautiful is just as important as where you put it!