COOL NEWS
Welcome to our news section, where you'll find the latest events, awards, articles, and updates. Please scroll down to stay informed about our community's accomplishments and initiatives!
Common Ground Film Screening
Cool OC hosted an exclusive film screening of Common Ground at the Frida Cinema on Sunday, August 25th, from 3:00 to 5:30 PM. The event featured a panel discussion with Grant Johnson, Benito Olamendi, and Jessica Waite, who shared their insights and perspectives on the film's topics. The screening and panel provided an engaging platform for attendees to learn, discuss, and reflect on the issues presented in Common Ground.
3rd Annual Eco Fair
We had an amazing day of community and inspiration as we celebrated our only home - Earth! We had over 30 community partners, small sustainable businesses, the City of Irvine Sustainability Team, and an amazing team of volunteers help us make this possible! Our deepest gratitude all of them and the attendees and elected who came by to show love and support for our environment!
OCPA: Views from Cool OC & Cool Irvine
Learn more through this article, Views from Cool OC & Cool Irvine. This provides Insights from our Executive Director, Patty Oh, who unveils how pivotal support from OCPA propels Cool OC/ Cool Irvine’s mission to enlighten the community about the benefits of green energy.
The Orange County Power Authority (OCPA) offers three energy plans, each with different levels of renewable energy and cost savings:
1. Basic Choice Plan: 44% renewable energy, 3% cheaper than SCE rates.
2. Smart Choice Plan: Exclusive to OCPA, 72% renewable energy.
3. 100% Renewable Energy Plan: Also exclusive to OCPA, this plan provides 100% renewable energy.
These plans cater to various preferences, from cost savings to environmental impact, allowing Orange County residents to choose their contribution to a sustainable future.
2023 Beacon Leadership & Innovation Award
We proudly announce that the Cool Irvine program received the 2023 Beacon Leadership & Innovation award and the Platinum Level "Spotlight" Award for efforts to reduce natural gas use as an agency by 38% over the past year. The Beacon Program recognizes and supports California local agencies working to build more vibrant and sustainable communities. Beacon honors voluntary efforts by cities, counties, and special districts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save energy, and adopt policies that promote sustainability.
Join our 2nd Annual Cool Irvine Sustainability Fair
2023: End of Year Summary
Reflecting on 2023, the Cool Irvine program experienced significant triumphs. The year started with securing a 2-year contract with the City of Irvine, leading to a notable agenda discussion in February. The community's dedication shone through as program participants waited hours to testify, some engaging virtually for the first time. Mayor Farrah Khans placed the item for consideration on the agenda, and it was supported by Councilmembers Larry Agran, Tammy Kim, and Mike Carroll.
As the program was extended, June marked a turning point, enabling the expansion of the 2nd annual Cool Irvine Sustainability Fair. We doubled the number of partners who exhibited at the fair and were able to secure several sponsors, such as OC Power Authority, Irvine Ranch Water District, South Coast AQMD, OC Habitats, We Compost2, and OC Goes Solar, to name a few, with over 200 residents attending the event. Vice Mayor Tammy Kim was able to stop by and speak to attendees.
Being able to fund the program allowed Cool Irvine to transition to a new online platform in August, which enhanced tracking capabilities and engagement. On top of tracking carbon emissions reduced, it tracks water, natural gas (therms), electricity (kWhs), and estimated money saved from sustainable actions performed on the platform.
August brought further recognition as Mayor Farrah Khan featured Cool Irvine as one of several innovative city programs addressing climate change at the Investigative Hearing on Climate Resiliency organized by OC Board of Supervisors Katrina Foley and Vicente Sarmiento. As the county looks to create a county-wide climate action plan, they are looking at successful climate programs that can engage the community, encouraging adaptation and resilience. The Cool Irvine program has received recognition on the global and national stage.
The Cool Irvine program received the 2023 Beacon Leadership & Innovation Award at the League of California Cities Conference in September, a testament to its impactful initiatives. October saw active participation at the Global Village Festival and the Fall Fiesta, connecting with residents and expanding the program's reach.
Cool Irvine stayed active throughout the months, attending various events/workshops. These included the Asian American Business Association of Orange County, Recycling Townhall, Solar Townhall, Solarize Irvine Workshop, Irvine Senior Expo, Global Village Festival, and Fall Fiesta. All while hosting many virtual and in-person socials, info sessions, and training!
As we wrap up 2023, these achievements propel us forward with enthusiasm. The year has been a testament to the community's dedication and the program's commitment to sustainability. With gratitude for the milestones and memories, we eagerly anticipate creating even more positive change in 2024.
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