Founded in 2022, Cool OC educates communities on the challenges of climate change, and empowers individuals to make planet-friendly choices that foster disaster-resilient, vibrant communities. Cool OC facilitates inclusive dialogue and action to address the unique needs of a broad base, including disadvantaged communities, which are disproportionately affected by climate-related impacts. The organization launched its first projects in Irvine, Ca., where more than 90% of households are threatened by heat waves. There, Cool OC has provided essential services, conducted sustainability workshops, trainings, and connected the community with other resources to empower households to build resilience against extreme weather events and prepare effectively for disasters. Cool OC plans to bring the Irvine model to Orange County’s most vulnerable and underserved communities, helping advance a sustainable and equitable future where everyone in Orange County can thrive in harmony with the environment.
Group Photo of volunteers and staff at the 2024 Cool Irvine Eco Fair by Dustin Lam.
Cool OC’s three-person staff is helmed by founder Patty Oh, who trained through Al Gore’s Climate Reality Project. Cool Irvine, a two-year partnership with the city, received the 2023 Beacon Leadership & Innovation award for reducing annual natural gas use as an agency by 38%. The program introduced an online platform providing tools for residents, including youth and renters, to track reductions in carbon emissions, water, natural gas and electricity usage to estimate household savings. Cool OC hosted its third annual Cool Irvine Eco Fair in 2024, with 30 exhibitors and partners, and over 400 attendees–a 50% increase from 2023. Cool OC is working to launch the North OC Cool Block Climate Leadership and Resilience Program, providing leadership training to sustainability champions in neighborhoods identified as disadvantaged communities by the California Environmental Protection Agency, including Fullerton and Buena Park.
Children checking out the activity table at the Cool Irvine Sustainability Fair.