Climate Action Series: Fall in Love with Sustainability
Fall is coming and so are sustainability events in Palo Alto. Get ready for a season filled with sustainability events, workshops, and programs that’ll leave you feeling inspired, informed and ready to take climate action. From worm composting to SunShares solar panels, there’s something for everyone from your garden to your home. Commit to a greener community together by attending a Climate Protection Working Group Meeting, taking a walking tour, and exploring vibrant gardens. Plus, conserving is cool; gain tips to save energy during hot weather. Read on to make this next season full of sustainability and fun!
Save Energy, Help Statewide Electrical Grid
With the current National Weather Service heat advisory in effect, it’s a good reminder to save energy to reduce the strain on the statewide electrical grid. Visit cityofpaloalto.org/efficiencytips for no-cost and low-cost ways to easily save energy such as raising air conditioning temperature slightly if possible, close drapes and blinds to keep heat out of indoor spaces, and do not run major appliances during the heat of the day. For additional resources including hot weather health safety tips, go here.
Climate Protection Working Group Meeting
Let’s get together to talk about how to take climate action. No matter your background, all are welcome to join the Climate Protection Working Group Meeting. Discuss the E-Mobility Strategic Plan and receive an update on advancing Whole Home Electrification.
This meeting is Thursday, September 12, 4:15 to 5:45 p.m. Questions and comments? Email sustainability@cityofpaloalto.org.
Heat Pump Water Heaters Are Awesome According to Your Neighbors
Join over 440 of your neighbors who are saving time and money by switching to a new Heat Pump Water Heater.
- Save Money: Heat pump water heaters are more efficient and will save you hundreds on hot water expenses.
- Save Time: The City’s improved seamless program takes care of everything–permits, contractors, and installation. DIY rebates are available too.
- Be a Climate Changemaker: Electrify for a greener community! Heat pump water heaters use electricity and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Ready to #HeatPumpItUp? One call does it all. Call (650) 713–3411 or visit cityofpaloalto.org/switch to learn more and get started today.
Clean Air at Home in Palo Alto
Discover the power of clean air, electrification, and sustainability at an event, hosted in partnership with 350 Silicon Valley Palo Alto and the Palo Alto Student Climate Coalition. Learn from experts, explore sustainable resources, and connect with neighborhood leaders who have the answers to home upgrade questions. Join us Saturday, September 28, 1–3 p.m. at Mitchell Park Community Center in the El Palo Alto room. Learn more here.
Electric Home Tour 2024
Acterra is excited to announce the Electric Home Tour 2024. This year’s tour on October 19, 2024, will showcase both fully and partially electrified homes, providing valuable insights into the advantages of transitioning from gas to electric appliances. Acterra is seeking enthusiastic homeowners who have adopted electrification measures and are eager to share their experiences with the community. Apply to host through September 10.
Worm Composting Workshop: Gamble Garden
Transform your garden into a thriving ecosystem. Add a nutrient boost with worm composting. Worms will turn your kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich soil, making for a no fuss, no smell, low-maintenance way to compost. Compost helps soil structure, enhances overall moisture, provides slow-release nutrients to your garden and reduces erosion.
Learn more and register for the last free worm compost workshop of the year on Saturday, September 14, from 10 a.m. to noon. Palo Alto residents receive a free compost bin or worm bin (one per household) when attending, while supplies last.
SunShares Solar Panels & Battery Storage
Are you a Palo Alto Utilities customer interested in installing solar panels or a battery storage system? If so, don’t miss the SunShares webinar to learn about the basics of solar technology and SunShare discounts, making your home more resilient during emergencies. SunShares is a regional solar program offering discounts and support for residential solar and battery storage. They help provide no-cost, no-obligation proposals from vetted contractors plus guidance on how to take advantage of additional incentives and rebates.
SunShares enrollment is now open for Palo Alto residents through November 15 and the webinar is scheduled on Thursday, October 27 from 5 to 6:30 p.m.
Gardens Around Us: A Progressive Walking Tour
Join us for a delightful community stroll on Saturday, October 5, 1–4 p.m. Discover hidden gems in our vibrant community gardens. Meet at the Palo Alto Art Center for this leisurely journey, which starts with an introduction to the Rinconada Community Garden. Then visit Guinda, Hopkins and Churchill pollinator garden sites, with information about trees along the way. The walk ends at Gamble Garden with a visit and reception.
What We Sow in Cultivating Our Places: A Talk with Jennifer Jewell
Renowned author and host of the award-winning public radio program and podcast, Cultivating Place, Jennifer Jewell will delve into the philosophy behind her groundbreaking work on Saturday, October 19, 2–4 p.m. Jewell believes that gardens and gardeners have the power to shape a better world, addressing pressing issues such as climate change, habitat loss, and cultural polarization.
Fall Grow Family Day
Come grow with us in the gardens for an afternoon full of creativity and fun at the Art Center’s Fall Grow Family Day on Sunday, October 20, from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Unleash your inner artist with hands-on art projects led by teaching artists and community partners.
Inspired by our enchanting fall exhibition, GROW, and the vibrant gardens that surround us — this event is perfect for families seeking a fun and educational experience. From painting to sculpting and everything in between, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
