California has cut more than 22% of its greenhouse gas emissions since passing its landmark climate law in 2006, while growing its gross domestic product per capita by 38%, according to new data released today. The 16th California Green Innovation Index from think tank Next 10 shows that the pace of emissions reductions has accelerated in recent years, with steep drops in key sectors helping to narrow the gap to achieving its 2030 climate targets.
California’s progress in cutting emissions is accelerating. We’re seeing real-time proof that the state’s climate policies are working,” noted Noel Perry, venture capitalist and founder of Next 10. “As we enter the holiday season, it’s important to remember these cuts are not just numbers on a page; they represent healthier kids and blossoming industries supported by an innovative workforce that has mainstreamed clean energy technologies. Unfortunately, it also underscores what’s at stake under a federal administration hostile to clean air standards and climate action.”
The report highlights that some of the state’s greatest success has been seen in sectors potentially at risk under Trump, particularly the transportation sector. Overall transportation emissions fell by 13.5% from 2019 to 2022. Emissions from heavy-duty vehicles, which are a significant contributor to California’s air pollution, fell more than 13% in just one year between 2021 and 2022. Pollution from passenger vehicles also plummeted in recent years, falling 14% from 2019 to 2022 as zero-emission vehicle sales soared due to rising public demand and state air quality standards. The state hit its goal to have 1.5 million zero-emission vehicles on the road by 2025 two years early, in 2023.