In 2001, the County of Mendocino adopted an Energy Conservation Policy that included mandatory and discretionary energy conservation measures. Subsequent to this 2001 Policy, in 2006, the Board of Supervisors adopted the Sustainable Practices Policy (which was amended in 2009 and most recently in 2022).  The policy intent is as follows:

• Institute practices that reduce waste by increasing efficiency and effectiveness; and
• Purchase products that minimize environmental impacts, toxics, pollution, and hazards to worker and community safety to the greatest extent practicable, and purchase products that include recycled content, are durable and long-lasting, conserve energy and water, use agricultural fibers and residues, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and use unbleached or chlorine free manufacturing processes, are lead-free and mercury-free.
• Incorporate environmental considerations including recycled-content and recovered Organic Waste product use into purchasing practices and procurement.

In keeping with the County's sustainable practices, and the Board of Supervisors' commitment to reduce our carbon footprint, the County upgraded all qualifying county facilities and infrastructure to Sonoma Clean Power’s 100% renewable service, EverGreen, in January 2022.

The County has partnered with Sonoma Clean Power to bring Do It Yourself (DIY) Energy and Water Savings Toolkits to all branches of the Mendocino County Library. Each branch has a “Climate Corner” with a curated collection of books for all ages about climate change. The county is committed to sharing practical actions people can take to address the climate crisis.

Resources: EverGreen Flyer