The COMPASS project in San Juan County started with simple conversations among neighbors. Residents, concerned about climate changes in their community, wanted to ensure their voices were heard in the county’s updated comprehensive plan. This plan aims to improve climate resilience and reduce greenhouse gas emissions over the coming years.
Lopez Island residents Chom Greacen and Faith Van De Putte saw an opportunity. They created the Comprehensive Plan Outreach for Meaningful Public Action and Sustainable Solutions (COMPASS) to gather community insights on climate concerns. “We wanted to spark awareness and discussion,” they said, highlighting the importance of including various voices, especially from those most affected by climate impacts.
Angela Broderick, a climate and sustainability coordinator for San Juan County, emphasized the challenge of engaging residents who may not already be invested in climate issues. The traditional approach often excludes many perspectives. COMPASS sought to change this by focusing on underrepresented communities, including youth, Latinx residents, and low-income individuals.
In total, COMPASS held 19 focus group sessions with 258 participants, generating nearly 1,000 ideas on how to address local climate issues. One clear takeaway was that “climate touches everything,” as Van De Putte noted. Participants identified sustainable transportation as a top priority since it contributes significantly to the county’s carbon emissions.
Recent data reveal that transportation and maritime operations account for 64% of San Juan County’s greenhouse gas emissions, with ferries being a significant contributor. Consequently, the community strongly called for low-carbon transit solutions, like electric buses and improved public transportation options.
To enhance community participation, COMPASS provided stipends to low-income participants to cover lost wages and offered meals and childcare during focus groups. This effort aimed to create a welcoming space for everyone, recognizing that not all community members have the same resources. For instance, Spanish-speaking participants faced unique barriers, often needing to prioritize affordability over environmentally friendly options.
The feedback gathered influenced the county’s updated plan, particularly in areas like housing. Residents expressed a desire for policies that would reduce the number of second homes, promote affordable housing, and encourage environmentally sustainable practices. This highlights a growing recognition that climate issues are tied to socio-economic factors, indicating that equity and environmental sustainability must go hand in hand.
Excitingly, COMPASS’s final report is set to play an integral role in shaping the county’s comprehensive plan by December 2025. This project has not only provided a platform for diverse voices but has paved the way for more inclusive community dialogue on important issues.
As we move forward, there’s a clear urgency to integrate climate action into daily lives. For many residents, addressing these challenges is not just about environmental goals but also about fairness and access to resources. Conversations ignited by COMPASS are vital as they bring people together to address the pressing issues their community faces today and in the future.
In a world grappling with rising challenges, the efforts in San Juan County can serve as a model for other communities striving for inclusive and impactful climate action. By acknowledging that “climate touches everything,” we can work towards sustainable solutions that benefit everyone.
