Young children are among the most vulnerable to climate impacts — extreme heat, wildfire smoke, flooding, and power outages all reach them first and hardest. The San Mateo County Early Childhood Climate Action Plan (ECCAP), launched in summer 2025 by Build Up San Mateo County with CEC’s support, is the first county-centered climate action plan focused on early childhood.
What the plan does
- Researches climate impacts at child care facilities, particularly in under-resourced areas
- Lays out strategies for adapting child care centers to withstand heat, air pollution, and climate disruptions
- Recommends policies that increase funding and access for climate-resilient upgrades
- Engages government, environmental groups, and public health experts across sectors
The plan was informed by the U.S. Early Years Climate Action Plan and shaped by input from more than 100 local organizations, child care providers, public agencies, and community partners.
The full plan is available from Build Up San Mateo County.