UC San Diego has a rich history of climate leadership in science, technology, and politics. With the opening of the new Social Sciences Public Engagement Building in 2021, the Climate Action Lab began with a group of faculty approaching climate solutions from a social sciences perspective. Since then, the Climate Action Lab has developed into a space for events, speakers, climate curriculum, and more. It facilitates collaboration between various academic disciplines through a community-based lens. 

With the guidance of the Convene and Influence Award from the Office of Research and Innovation, the CAL seeks to incorporate a social sciences approach that mobilizes action through levers of economic, political, and cultural change. The Climate Action Lab will use this award to host events throughout the 2025-2026 academic school year that empowers students with opportunities to seek out impactful climate careers, connections, and internships. The skills students will acquire can aid our changing environment by finding solutions that mitigate climate impacts and promote climate justice. 

The CAL aims to be a one-stop resource for students who would like to learn more about on-campus activities and ways to get involved with community-based solutions. Through this, we will strengthen UCSD as a regional leader in climate action by equipping, motivating, and elevating students to make change.