Why a State-Network Leads to Success

Across the US, cities and states are taking action on climate. States set legal and policy contexts under which their cities operate. At the same time, because local governments have jurisdiction and the ability to create local regulations, communities have more flexibility and power to catalyze clean energy actions on a faster timeframe. Our state network positions communities for success for these reasons and more:

• Nonprofits, public universities, extension programs, professional associations, etc., orient around state boundaries

• Regional foundations, corporations, and other funders often orient around state boundaries

• States are a common psychological frame for self-identification and organizing movements