Since its founding in 2009, the Citizens Environmental Council (CEC) has become a regional catalyst for sustainability, educating the public on critical environmental issues, advocating for planet-friendly policies and empowering young people to become environmental leaders.

Our mission is to champion regional sustainability through education, advocate for environmental and climate policy, and empower young environmental leaders.

We have four signature programs:

  • Speaker Series CEC offers free “Green Programs on Hot Topics” on current issues that generate conversation and new ideas. Past programs have explored the impact of climate change on health, gray water, sea level rise and native plant landscaping.
  • CEC Student Film Fest San Mateo County students in grades 4 through 12 are invited to submit 5-minute videos about sustainability issues in this annual competition, which awards cash prizes.

  • Youth Climate Ambassadors Leadership Program This countywide program grew out of one that CEC started in 2018. High school students learn about environmental issues and lead sustainability initiatives at their respective campuses.
  • Scholarships Burlingame High School seniors who have demonstrated a strong interest in environmental issues are eligible for CEC scholarships that are awarded each spring.