Our Mission
The mission of the Green Policy Initiative is to cultivate student leadership in climate and environmental advocacy. We work to advance sustainable policies, expand opportunities for student involvement in the legislative process, and support research and education that drive systemic change. By centering collaboration, equity, and community impact, we aim to build a stronger movement for climate action led by students at every level.
About Us
Green Policy Initiative is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit that empowers undergraduate students across California and beyond to take an active role in shaping state policy. We focus on sustainability, clean energy, environmental justice, and public health, giving students hands-on experience in policy advocacy and grassroots organizing. Our organization was founded in response to the lack of student representation in legislative advocacy spaces, and we are committed to equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools to influence policy, testify before committees, propose amendments, and engage directly with decision-makers.
Our Values
Leadership
We believe students have the creativity, energy, and perspective needed to shape a sustainable future. All of our efforts are led and driven by students.
Integrity and Transparency
We operate openly, honestly, and without financial interests. Our work is voluntary, and our processes are clear and accountable.
Collaboration
We foster teamwork and partnerships among students, institutions, and communities to maximize our collective impact.
Evidence-Based Action
We ground our advocacy and educational efforts in research, data, and critical analysis to ensure our initiatives are effective and informed.
Sustainability
We champion long-term solutions that protect our environment, promote resilience, and benefit current and future generations.
Over 80% of California Republican legislators have accepted campaign contributions from oil and gas companies in the last 12 years.
California law requires the state to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, one of the most ambitious climate goals in the U.S.
In 2022, the Legislature passed a law banning the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035, making California the first state to do so.
The 2025-26 California budget dedicates $2.7 billion from the new $10 billion climate bond to projects that address water security, wildfire prevention, and community climate resilience.
In 2023, California passed SB 253, making it the first state to require large companies to publicly report their greenhouse gas emissions, including emissions from their supply chains.
News
Unseen and Undercounted: Indigenous Students Misrepresented at Georgetown University
Written by Emma Manetta
Senator Limón and the Future of California Green Policy
Written by Alec Sarkissian
California Advances AB 260: Strengthening Medication Abortion Access and Telehealth Rights
Written by Claire Densmore