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Our programs — across beneficial electrification, climate-friendly food, and education — build collective action in fighting climate change. We equip students, residents, civic leaders, and local businesses with the ability to make informed and thoughtful decisions to create solutions for a healthy planet (see our Theory of Change). We advocate for:

In the course of our work, we strive to uphold and nurture:
Diversity, or the representation of all our varied identities and differences (race, ethnicity, gender, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, tribe, caste, socio-economic status, thinking, learning, and communication styles, etc.), collectively and as individuals. We think of diversity as all the ways that we are similar, different, and unique.
Inclusion and a culture of belonging, which is built by actively inviting the contribution and participation of all people. If Diversity is being asked to the party, inclusion is being asked to dance. Every person’s voice adds value, and we strive to create an environment where all folks with different identities feel valued, welcome, and leveraged within any setting. No one person can or should be called upon to represent an entire community.
Equity, or the fair treatment, equality of opportunity, and fair access to information and resources for all. It recognizes that different advantages and barriers exist, and that we do not all start from the same place. Equity begins by acknowledging that unequal starting place and making a commitment to correct and address the imbalance.
Philosophy of Sustainability
Acterra believes in "walking the talk" of sustainability in its internal operations by sourcing sustainably, conserving resources, thoughtfully valuing human capital, and minimizing needless waste.
Food policy — When providing food at public events of all scales, Acterra highlights plant-based offerings prepared from local, whole ingredients; utilizes reusable plates, cups, and utensils; and ensures the responsible composting of waste.
Transportation practices — Acterra supports staff and program participants in making clean transportation choices such as carpooling, walking, biking, public transit, telecommuting (work-from-home), and switching to electric vehicles.
Climate change education — The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, UNESCO, and other international bodies prioritize climate change education, which helps people “understand and address the impacts of the climate crisis, empowering them with the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes needed to act as agents of change.” Acterra works to provide a strong educational foundation that can lead to insights, behavior change, and ultimately, more climate-friendly choices. Students emerge from Acterra’s You(th) Be the Change Program and Acterra’s Student Ambassador Program better equipped to evaluate climate change as a facet of their daily lives and perceive ways they can create positive social change.
Well-being and productivity in the workplace — Acterra supports the productivity and mental health of its staff members by practicing “Slow Fridays.” During Slow Fridays, Acterra staff aim not to respond to external communications or hold meetings, allowing other forms of work to be prioritized. Messages that staff receive on Fridays may have a delayed response. After piloting this practice over a period of several months, Acterra implemented this policy in 2023. In addition, the closure of Acterra’s offices during the first week in July as well as the week between Christmas and New Year’s is designed to give team members dedicated time to rest and recharge.
Green Business — In addition to providing support and resources for Bay Area businesses and organizations to pursue sustainable practices, Acterra is itself a certified Green Business in Santa Clara County. We earned our Green Business certification by reducing our water usage, conserving energy, purchasing recycled products, eliminating the use of toxic cleaning chemicals, improving worker safety, and reducing the amount of waste that goes to the landfill.In addition, Acterra values:
Honesty and Transparency — communicating clearly and honestly about our programs and operations.
Creativity in Community Service — crafting ways to educate, motivate, and engage our diverse donors, supporters, and constituents.True Partnerships — soliciting community and donor feedback to explore and deepen opportunities to match interests and maximize impact.
Flat Organizational Structure — embracing contributions from every level, from volunteers and interns to positions of leadership.
Integrity and Shared Purpose — coming together to face challenges; taking pride in our cultural diversity and collective wisdom.