For those of us who dream of a future where fossil fuels are something only our grandparents can remember, the administration’s recent climate rollbacks have been disappointing, to put it mildly. Overturning the EPA’s endangerment finding was only the latest blow to protecting the climate for our children. But regardless of what happens in Washington, we can make local choices that make a big difference.
For example, the city of SLO aims to be carbon-neutral by 2035. That’s daunting, but it’s achievable if we pull together. For example, we could follow the example of other cities and subsidize the purchase of solar panels, batteries, and EVs. Fortunately, Central Coast Community Energy already offers some incentives, and the SLO Climate Coalition offers free energy advising for people who want to electrify their homes. But more of us need to take advantage of these opportunities.
Our cities could also host regular events where residents can borrow an electric vehicle for 24 hours. I bought my first EV after a friend loaned me his for a day.
RFK Jr. recommends we eat more beef—advice that runs counter to both medical guidance and climate science. Instead, we could shrink our beef intake and learn to cook some of the delicious plant-based dishes that come from India, the Middle East, and Ethiopia.
We have more power than we think. Let’s use it.
Don Gaede
San Luis Obispo
This article appears in March 12 – March 19, 2026.