The Climate Commitment Act Is Already Changing Washington—Here’s How

When we talk about climate action, it’s easy to get lost in the big numbers and long-term goals. But here in Washington, the Climate Commitment Act (CCA) is already making a difference—right now, in real and tangible ways.

From forests to free buses, from tribal leadership to neighborhood EV chargers, the CCA is creating a cleaner, more equitable future across the state. Let’s take a look at a few powerful examples that show how climate solutions are improving lives today.

Preserving Forests, Protecting Our Future
In Whatcom County, 650 acres of forest have been conserved, thanks to funding from the CCA. This isn’t just a win for the environment—it’s a win for salmon recovery, carbon storage, and ecosystem stability. Protecting forests helps communities thrive and ensures future generations have access to the natural spaces that define our state.

Cleaner Homes, Healthier Communities
In Issaquah, a new Home Equipment and Appliance Rebate Program is helping lower-income families replace outdated appliances with cleaner, more efficient options. With support from the CCA, the program makes it easier for households to reduce indoor pollution, cut energy costs, and lower climate emissions—all while creating healthier living spaces for those who need it most. Wouldn’t it be great if more cities had a similar program?

Charging Ahead—Equitably
EVs are great, but access matters. Through the CCA, new electric vehicle charging infrastructure is being built in underserved neighborhoods, helping reduce transportation emissions while making sure no one is left behind in the shift to clean energy. It’s climate action that centers equity and brings clean mobility to all.

Farming for the Future
Across Washington, the Sustainable Farms & Fields program is working with local Conservation Districts to help farmers adopt climate-friendly practices. Thanks to CCA funding, projects like cover cropping, no-till farming, and improved manure management are cutting emissions, improving soil health, and boosting resilience. It’s climate action that supports agriculture and rural communities alike.

Youth Ride Free—A Climate Win with Daily Impact
Washington is now the first state in the country to offer free public transit to all youth, fully funded by a climate policy. That’s right—the CCA isn’t just about emissions reductions; it’s about giving young people more freedom, access to education and opportunity, and a cleaner, less congested future.

Investing in Tribal Climate Leadership
Tribal Nations are not only at the forefront of climate impacts—they’re leading the response. The CCA has committed $50 million to support Tribal-led climate adaptation efforts. This includes relocating coastal communities, restoring ecosystems, and supporting resilience grounded in Indigenous knowledge. It’s a bold step toward justice, sovereignty, and long-term sustainability.

Every one of these examples shows how the CCA is more than just a climate law—it’s a community investment plan, a justice initiative, and a roadmap to a better Washington. From clean transportation and forest conservation to healthier homes and climate-smart farming, CCA-funded projects are cutting emissions, supporting communities, and building a more resilient future. Curious to see what’s happening near you? Explore the interactive CCA map to discover the many ways climate action is taking root across the state.

Let’s celebrate these wins, support what’s working, and keep pushing forward.

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