Climate Leaders Initiative
What is a Climate Leader?
The Climate Leader Initiative is a part of the Sustainable Bellevue Team’s priority to mobilize community action to support the implementation of the Sustainable Bellevue Action Plan. Residents interested in becoming Climate Leaders will learn about the science and behaviors that drive climate change, best practices to reduce emissions and build resilience, and promote city programs and individual actions that will help us achieve our sustainability goals.
What does a Climate Leader do?
Climate Leaders are residents of Bellevue and active members of the community. They will attend neighborhood meetings and community events to share information on climate change impacts and solutions. They will maintain a reciprocal relationship between the city and community to gauge concerns, relay ideas, and understand attitudes about climate change in our city. Through having conversations about climate change with other residents – their family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues – they will be an integral part of mobilizing their communities and leading climate action.
What kind of role does a Climate Leader have?
Climate Leaders have an important role within the city. They serve as educators for residents and local organizations who are interested in learning more. They are also listeners who provide input and feedback to the City on their interactions with the community. However, they aren’t expected to know everything but can provide contact information for City staff as needed. Upon completion of training and education, Climate Leaders will be encouraged and supported to lead a local sustainability initiative in their communities.
The Climate Leaders Initiative will launch its first cohort for all residents in July 2026.
Climate Leaders Objectives
- Maintain a reciprocal relationship between the city and community members interested in and passionate about climate action and sustainability
- Build capacity to involve and engage general residents in community climate action
- To build awareness of climate change and sustainability opportunities for residents
Climate Leaders Outcomes
Residents that join the Climate Leaders Initiative will be a part of an 8-week cohort where they will be provided education and training on climate literacy, community and civic engagement, effective communication, and mobilizing community action. Climate Leaders will be directed to resources for themselves and their communities to help inform and incentive climate action.
Cohort meetings will be held weekly and participants will learn about topics such as:
- Climate Change Drivers and Hazards
- Energy and Buildings
- Zero-Emissions Transportation
- Zero Waste, Recycle Right, and Mindful Consumption
- Natural Resource Conservation
- Advancing Decarbonization
- Household and Community Resilience
- Mobilizing Community Action