by Padmini Das
As climate activists prepare for the impending Trump era and the potential for a rollback of federal climate protections, local governments and grassroots movements are stepping into the gap, proving that meaningful climate action does not have to come from Washington. Through innovative policies, community-led initiatives and dedicated grassroots activism, local communities are showing that they can lead the way in creating a sustainable future. The road ahead may be challenging, but the collective power of local efforts offers a powerful reminder that even in the face of federal setbacks, the fight for a healthier planet is far from over.
State and local governments as climate innovators
States like California lead with ambitious climate goals, such as achieving carbon neutrality by 2045. Its cap-and-trade program and 100% renewable energy commitment have driven job creation and $12.6 billion in renewable investments. Similarly, New York has allocated $1.4 billion to renewable energy projects, including solar and wind farms, alongside $200 million for energy storage to achieve 1,500 MW by 2025. Programs like free community solar access for low-income residents further highlight New York’s equity-focused approach to climate protection.
Massachusetts’ Clean Energy Standard and offshore wind initiatives aim to achieve 1,600 MW by 2030, while Rhode Island’s Power Sector Transformation plan integrates renewable energy and vehicle electrification. Maryland’s 50% renewable portfolio standard and Colorado’s plan to cut carbon emissions by 60% while retiring coal plants exemplify proactive state leadership. Other states like Maine, Wisconsin and North Carolina have set long-term goals for carbon neutrality and clean energy transitions. In fact, nine states from the mid-Atlantic, including New England and Washington D.C., have committed to work together to implement a regional program on clean transportation and pollution reduction.
At the city level, the U.S. Conference of Mayors has passed resolutions supporting the Paris Agreement, the Clean Power Plan, clean transportation and a transition to 100% renewable energy by 2035. The city of Atlanta became a participant in the Rockefeller Foundations’ 100 Resilient Cities Initiative by releasing a comprehensive resilience strategy. Meanwhile, Detroit released its first Climate Action Plan, focusing on strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change. Honolulu has mandated sea-level rise planning, and Houston has implemented a $2.5 billion flood mitigation plan. Norfolk, Virginia has adopted a zoning ordinance with resilience measures, and Miami has allocated $200 million for flood mitigation while addressing climate gentrification.
Grassroots movements: The heart of change
Grassroots movements remain a powerful force for advancing climate action. Grassroots organizations and local activists are often the first to call for stronger climate policies, hold elected officials accountable, and push for community-led solutions. These movements, fueled by the urgency of the climate crisis, have proven resilient in the face of federal inaction or opposition.
Grassroots movements like the Sunrise Movement and Fridays for Future have mobilized communities to demand bold climate policies. These groups have organized strikes, protests and lobbying efforts to pressure city officials and state legislators to take immediate action on climate change. Their efforts have resulted in policies such as bans on fossil fuel infrastructure, investment in clean energy and the establishment of climate emergency declarations in cities around the country. Organizations like Our Children’s Trust are also empowering young people to assert their climate rights in courts. One such litigant is 14-year-old Louisianan Jayden Foytlin, who — with 21 other young plaintiffs — is suing the U.S. government for its inaction on climate change.
Many of these grassroots efforts aim to diversify the climate movement, emphasizing the interconnection between environmental, social and economic justice. Heather McTeer Toney, a former mayor of Greenville, is working hard to enhance the contribution of communities of color towards climate solutions. Her work with Beyond Petrochemicals focuses on halting the expansion of more than 120 petrochemical projects concentrated in areas like Louisiana’s “Cancer Alley,” Texas and the Ohio River Valley.
Community-based initiatives are playing a central role in advancing climate resilience and environmental justice. Organizations like the Coalition for Community Solar are working to make renewable energy more accessible to underserved communities. These grassroots efforts not only combat climate change but also address the intersectionality of climate with social, racial and economic inequality.
For those driving local climate action, the Local Climate Actions Toolbox is an invaluable resource. Curated by the Climate Emergency Mobilization Team and the Sierra Club’s Grassroots Network, it offers practical tools and best practices for community-based advocacy and policy change.
Overcoming federal roadblocks
Despite the progress, there are challenges in sustaining local climate efforts in the face of a federal rollback. One significant hurdle is funding. With federal environmental protection programs under threat, local governments and grassroots organizations may struggle to secure the resources needed for large-scale climate projects. However, many local initiatives are finding creative ways to generate revenue, including through partnerships with the private sector, public-private funding models and climate bonds.
Additionally, the threat of political opposition from the federal level can undermine local efforts. For instance, the Trump administration has frequently sought to undermine state-level climate policies, such as California’s vehicle emission standards and New York’s renewable energy projects. That said, a recent federal court ruling upheld the right of California and 17 other states to impose automobile emissions limits stricter than federal law. In fact, California’s Attorney General, Rob Bonta, has promised to fight in court any attempt by the Trump administration to invalidate these stricter state standards. Despite anticipated challenges, the strong legal framework for state autonomy provides some protection for local climate action, and many blue states are gearing up to battle the incoming Trump administration’s environmental roadblocks.
Conclusion
While the challenges posed by federal inaction and potential rollbacks remain significant, the growing momentum of local climate action demonstrates that meaningful change can happen at the grassroots level. From bold state policies to community-driven initiatives, local governments and activists are proving that effective climate solutions do not require federal approval. Their innovation, resilience and commitment offer a hopeful path forward, ensuring that the fight for a healthier planet continues, no matter the political landscape. With strategic partnerships, dedicated advocacy, and a focus on justice and equity, local efforts are paving the way for a sustainable future.