This Community Climate Change Element demonstrates San Mateo County’s commitment to achieve energy efficiency and mitigate its impact on climate change by reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions consistent with state legislation. This element is an optional element of the General Plan and is not mandated by the State of California. Authorized by Section 65303 of the Government Code, the inclusion of this element in the General Plan demonstrates the County’s commitment to the long-term sustainability and resilience of the unincorporated county. San Mateo County is working to sustain the long-term health of the natural and built environments, achieve effective and meaningful reductions in GHGs, and increase resiliency to the impacts of climate change in the unincorporated county.