Amid ongoing federal rollbacks of environmental regulations under the Trump administration, climate activism is gaining momentum across the United States, particularly in California. Despite efforts by the administration to dismantle clean energy initiatives and weaken protections—including easing limits on power plant emissions and expanding offshore oil drilling—many citizens and advocacy groups are mobilizing to resist these changes.

In August, public opposition was demonstrated at a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) hearing in Santa Monica, where hundreds attended to defend California’s control over its coastal policies. Additionally, more than 18,000 individuals submitted comments opposing federal proposals to relax environmental safeguards along the state’s coast.

Environmental advocate Bill McKibben, who organizes the global event Sun Day to promote renewable energy, described his response as one of discouragement but not despair. He emphasized the necessity of standing up against multiple crises amid political leadership he characterized as inadequate. McKibben also founded Third Act, a national civic engagement movement focused on climate action and voting rights, which now includes tens of thousands of participants aged 60 and older in approximately 30 states, with a strong presence in Southern California.

Zan Dubin, a former reporter and communications consultant affiliated with Third Act/SoCal, outlined the organization’s multifaceted approach, including endorsing climate-friendly candidates, conducting phone banks, and advocating at public meetings. Third Act also partners in protests such as those at Dodger Stadium, where activists have called on the Los Angeles Dodgers to end sponsorship ties with oil company Phillips 66. Dubin highlighted ongoing efforts to promote electric vehicles (EVs) and referenced Disneyland’s recent announcement to replace its gas-powered Autopia attraction with electric cars by 2027.

Local activists like Claremont resident Margaret Davis have contributed to this wave of engagement. Davis, a member of Senior Stewards Acting for the Environment based at the Pilgrim Place community, underscores the critical role retirees can play given their available time and commitment. She reflected on the evolution of attitudes since the first Earth Day in 1970, now recognizing climate change as the central challenge of the era.

Youth-led involvement is also intensifying. Sim Bilal, executive director of Youth Climate Stewards 4 Local Action, noted an uptick in young participants eager to engage despite widespread skepticism about political and corporate institutions. Bilal, who launched his activism after observing environmental health impacts in his South Los Angeles neighborhood, works to educate young people on civic power and political agency, aiming to build future leadership capacity.

As environmental policies face significant challenges at the federal level, these grassroots and intergenerational efforts illustrate a growing determination to confront climate change and protect natural resources. Participants emphasize that proactive engagement and collective action remain vital strategies for progress in the face of political resistance.