Want to learn about environmental issues? Want to take local action to protect our environment? This is the program for you.
You will meet others who want to make a difference working for their environment--and we'll have a good time doing it!
In the Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP), you will learn about critical environmental issues, find out what Sierra Club activist leaders are doing, learn how to be an advocate, and enjoy nature through group activities. These goals will be accomplished through presentations by Sierra Club leaders, award-winning films, selected speakers, and participation in on-going campaigns.
Participants in previous programs have included elected officials and have ranged in age from high school students to senior citizens. Many of them now play integral roles in environmental organizations (both grassroots NGOs) and in government agencies, and they are continuing to work towards building a better world.
To sign up for the ESP program, fill out the registration form. One of our leaders will contact you. The sessions are in person for a reason. There is much to be gained by the in-person attendance. However, if you cannot make a meeting, you can attend remotely, if necessary. A social period from 6:30pm to 7pm includes a light dinner. The program starts at 7pm sharp. If you are unemployed or need help with the fee, please contact us. We offer partial scholarships and will make it possible for you to attend.
Holiday Social & Program Kickoff
Please join us for a Holiday Social in December to kick off the program! This is a great opportunity to socialize with other environmental advocates, meet our chapter leaders, and learn about the ESP program and how you can get involved in our current campaigns. We hope to see you!
ESP HOLIDAY SOCIAL
Friday, Dec 6th 6:30pm
3921 E Bayshore Rd, Palo Alto, CA 94303, USA
Program Details
We'll have six hybrid meetings (either in-person and remote) from January ’25 to June ’25, on the second Thursday of every month at 6:30pm (in person) or 7pm (remote). We meet January 9 , February 13 , March 13, April 10, May 8, June 12. The in-person meetings start 6:30pm half an hour earlier than the remote meetings to allow time to mingle and enjoy a light meal together at the chapter office in Palo Alto, CA.
2023 Webinar Recordings
To revisit the 2023 ESP webinars, click here.
Questions?
For a list of questions and answers, click here. If you have other questions, email ESP@lomaprieta.sierraclub.org.
Sessions
Here's a list of the sessions. You must be registered for the ESP program to attend!
1. January 9, 2025
Keeping the Bay Alive! Sea Level Rise and Protecting the Ecology of the Bay
Short film on sea level rise and its threat to Bay ecology, ecoservices and health.
Presentation on opportunities for natural and nature-based solutions to protect and improve biodiversity as sea levels rise through this century.
Susan DesJardin, Bay Alive Campaign
Jenna Haut, Staff Coordinator
Outing: TBA
2. February 13, 2025
The Scourge of Plastic Pollution. Threats to Biodiversity. Chapter Campaign(s)
The dark side of artificial greening: Plastic turfs and urban surfaces are fast gaining popularity even as science is starting to expose the disastrous health effects and the widespread pollution of our aquatic environments.
Susan Hinton, Plastic Pollution Prevention Campaign
Sue Chow, Environmental Legislative Action
Outing: TBA
3. March 13, 2025
30 x 30 Program
Light at Night: A Glowing Hazard, Dark Skies and Bird Safety
A bold vision for the future of Biodiversity and the Climate Crisis
Shruti Chandrasekhar, 30x30
Artificial light at night dilutes our view of the night sky, swallowing stars and planets alike. The damaging effects of light pollution affects all living beings across the spectrum of biodiversity
Shani Kleinhaus, Santa Clara Bird Alliance
Outing: TBA
4. April 10, 2025
Magic In Our Cities - Urban Waterways
Water is crucial for biodiversity in urban areas because it provides essential habitats for various plant and animal species, helps regulate the urban climate by mitigating heat islands, and plays a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems within the city.
Biodiverse ecosystems are critical to regulating water cycles – purifying water, preventing flood damage and reducing the impacts of drought.
Deb Cramer , Keep Coyote Creek Beautiful
Sustainable San Mateo,Greening Cities
Outing: TBA
5. May 8, 2025
Sustainable Land Use: Green Streets, Urban Tree Canopy
Why do more and more people appreciate the advantages offered by the concept of a green city, which can increase urban biodiversity by providing a variety of habitats for plants, animals, and other species? This also contributes significantly to health benefits and the quality of life of all inhabitants through a focus on the outdoor environment.
Film & Presentation
Gita Dev, Sustainable Land Use
Outing: TBA
6. June 12, 2025
Urban Ecology, Yards, and Biodiversity
Urban ecology spaces support pollinators and beneficial insects by providing diverse habitats in cities. These gardens and streets enhance biodiversity, improve ecosystem health, and offer food, shelter, and breeding grounds for a wide variety of birds, animals and insects, including bees and butterflies, while also promoting human health and happiness in our outdoor spaces.
Sustainable San Mateo (Speaker TBD)
Sam Baker, Speaker (TBC)