Golden State Today

California has formed a partnership with 21 Brazilian states to address environmental concerns and promote sustainable economic growth. Governor Gavin Newsom of California and Governor Renato Casagrande of Espírito Santo, Brazil, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a four-year collaboration between California and the Consórcio Brasil Verde (CBV), a consortium of Brazilian states focused on environmental protection.

The partnership aims to implement an action plan targeting pollution reduction, public health protection, job creation, clean air initiatives, transportation and energy improvements, adaptation strategies, and forest management. The R20 Regions of Climate Action organization, founded by former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, played a significant role in facilitating this MOU.

Governor Casagrande stated, “This is a historic opportunity to join efforts and share knowledge between Brazilian states and California, which is a reference in combating climate change.” He emphasized the importance of collective participation in developing solutions for global benefit.

California's proactive climate policies have allowed it to meet its 2020 climate target six years early. The state has previously engaged in international partnerships to share best practices in climate work. Last year saw collaborations with South Korea’s Gyeonggi Province and renewed agreements with Sweden and Norway. In 2023, California expanded its international cooperation by signing multiple MOUs with China and forming agreements with Australia. In 2022, partnerships were established with Canada, New Zealand, Japan, the Netherlands, Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia.

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