Thoughtful building policies can transform the places where we live, work, and gather into climate solutions that strengthen resilience in the local region, according to the Community Environmental Council (CEC).

To that end, as part of its Climate Fridays program, the CEC will join with the Society of Fearless Grandmothers Santa Barbara, and the Sierra Club Santa Barbara-Ventura Chapter to explore how innovative building policies can help create healthier communities, reduce emissions, and build climate resilience.

The program will be 4-5:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, at CEC’s Environmental Hub, 1219 State St., Santa Barbara.

Alelia Parenteau, city of Santa Barbara Sustainability & Resilience director, will join CEC President’s Council members Dennis Allen, former president of Allen Construction; and Karl Hutterer, former executive director of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, to discuss the Better Buildings Pilot Program.

The incentive-based approach is designed to encourage development projects that deliver measurable benefits for the climate while also supporting housing, mobility, ecological health, and vibrant public spaces, organizers said.

The project is headed to the Santa Barbara City Council next month, and community members voices can help shape the conversation, the CEC said.

Register here to attend.

Climate Fridays Santa Barbara brings together climate advocates, students, community leaders, and neighbors the first Friday of the month to learn, connect, and take action together.