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Welcome to Sustainable Carlsbad! In this issue, we’re excited to share the latest updates on the city’s sustainability efforts and offer tips for making environmentally friendly choices at home. You’ll find information on the city’s draft Climate Action Plan Update, energy-saving ideas and sustainable gardening practices to try this fall.

The city is nearing the final steps of its Climate Action Plan Update, with two key meetings remaining in the process aimed at aligning with state environmental targets and advancing the city’s sustainability goals.

On Wednesday, Oct. 2, the Planning Commission will review the draft Climate Action Plan Update and consider recommending its approval to the City Council. In November, the City Council will review the draft and consider adopting the plan.

Carlsbad adopted its first Climate Action Plan in 2015, becoming one of the first cities in the county to create a plan for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The original goal was to cut emissions to 4% below 2012 levels by 2020, a target the city surpassed by reducing emissions 4.8% by 2018—two years ahead of schedule.

The updated plan establishes new GHG reduction goals in response to evolving state regulations and updated emissions data: a 50% reduction below 2016 levels by 2035 and an 85% reduction by 2045.

The Climate Action Plan outlines specific actions the city will take to meet these goals and guide decisions and policies that affect everything from energy use and transportation to water conservation and waste management. By updating the plan, Carlsbad is strengthening its commitment to sustainability and preparing for the future.

You can read an overview of the draft plan on the city’s website.

Fall is here, but in Carlsbad, we know October often brings some of the warmest days of the year. As the city works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the Climate Action Plan Update, you can also help the environment by saving energy at home.

Small changes in how you use energy not only lower your bills but also reduce demand on power plants that emit greenhouse gases.

Here are some practical tips to save energy and make a difference:

• In the kitchen: Skip the oven and stove to keep your home cooler. Try no-cook or low-cook meals like salads, sandwiches or slow-cooked dishes using smaller appliances. This helps you save energy and reduces the need for cooling during warmer days.
• In the laundry room: Dry clothes for shorter periods or opt for full loads to use your dryer more efficiently. You can also hang-dry your clothes to take advantage of the warm weather. Hanging clothes extends their life, as dryers can damage fabrics over time and use significant energy.
• Around the house: Close blinds or curtains during the heat of the day or when you leave the house to keep your home cooler without relying on air conditioning. This simple step reduces the need for cooling, saving energy and cutting costs.

Fall is an ideal time to get back into your garden, especially when temperatures start to drop. The city is sharing some sustainable gardening tips to help you enjoy the season while caring for our environment. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, there’s plenty you can do to help your garden thrive this fall.

What to plant this fall

Carlsbad’s Mediterranean climate provides nearly year-round opportunities for planting, but fall is one of the best times to refresh your garden. Cool-weather crops can thrive in both garden beds and containers.

Here are some plants that gardeners typically grow in the fall:

• Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and lettuce
• Root vegetables such as carrots, radishes and beets
• Pumpkin, butternut squash and other rare squash varieties
• Herbs like parsley, cilantro and thyme

Nontoxic alternatives to pesticides

Chemical pesticides may quickly eliminate pests, but they can also pose risks to local waterways. When rain or irrigation water washes these chemicals into storm drains, they flow untreated into our creeks, lagoons and eventually the ocean.

Instead, try natural alternatives like neem oil, insecticidal soap or companion planting:

• Neem oil helps control pests like aphids, whiteflies and spider mites by disrupting their feeding and growth.
• Insecticidal soap kills insects like aphids and mites on contact. (Both neem oil and insecticidal soap are available at most garden centers and online retailers.)
• Companion planting involves growing certain plants near each other to repel pests naturally. For example, pairing marigolds with tomatoes can help deter nematodes, while basil can keep mosquitoes and flies away.

If you’re trying to get rid of a specific pest in your garden, the University of California offers helpful information on many types of pests, plant diseases and weeds.

The city takes a similar approach to pest control through its Integrated Pest Management Plan, which prioritizes natural methods in city parks and properties before turning to traditional pesticides as a last resort. 

Use compost and mulch

Compost adds essential nutrients to the soil, while mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds and prevent soil erosion. Using compost and mulch improves soil structure, reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and helps your garden retain water.

Carlsbad residents can pick up free compost and mulch at the Palomar Transfer Station, Monday through Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Looking for ways to get involved in the community and support sustainability? Here are some events happening in Carlsbad:

Compost & Mulch Giveaway

Oct. 13, 10 a.m. | Palomar Transfer Station

Carlsbad residents can pick up free compost and mulch at the Palomar Transfer Station. Proof of residency is required, and Republic Services staff will be available on-site to assist in loading materials.

Fixit Clinic

Oct. 26, 10 a.m. | Cole Library | Register online

Join us for a Halloween-themed Fixit Clinic where you can breathe new life into your favorite items. Our volunteer coaches will guide you through the repair process, providing tools and expertise to help you troubleshoot and fix broken items. Even if something can’t be repaired, you’ll learn more about how it was made and works.

This clinic will feature DIY upcycling crafts, including sewing your own costume cape or trick-or-treat bag from secondhand fabrics. You can also participate in a swap for Halloween décor and costumes. Plus, take advantage of a free e-waste collection event by Republic Services, where Carlsbad residents can drop off electronics for proper recycling.

Thanks for reading our Sustainable Carlsbad newsletter. We hope these stories inspire you to take action, whether it’s conserving energy, exploring sustainable gardening or getting involved in one of our community events. Your efforts make a difference in keeping Carlsbad beautiful. Stay tuned for more updates in our next issue!

If you want to connect more with nature and enjoy Carlsbad's healthy outdoor lifestyle, sign up for the city's Happy Trails newsletter. We'll share news throughout the year about the city's trail system, hiking reviews, nature guides and more.