On March 17, 2026, the Education and Child Development Department, in partnership with Build Up San Mateo County, hosted the BUGS Early Childhood Climate Summit. This initiative represents the nation’s first county-level Climate Action Plan focused specifically on child care facilities and early childhood. The summit centered on understanding the impacts of climate change on young children and child care environments, reimagining child care facilities through a climate-resilient lens, and advancing policy recommendations to increase funding and expand access to climate-resilient upgrades.
Dean Michael Kane welcomed attendees, including representatives from government and policy leadership, environmental and public health organizations, business, and philanthropic partners, and child care networks and initiatives. The event highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration and fostered meaningful discussions on multi-sector solutions to support climate-resilient child care facilities.
The program featured a keynote address by Dr. Lisa Patel, followed by a panel led by JP Renaud with Angie Garling, Maria Durana, Dr. Curtis Chan, and Jasneet Sharma. Panelists shared insights on what building climate resilience can look like through collaborative, community-driven approaches. Director Christine Padilla also provided welcoming remarks.
Students from the ECE 212: Child, Family, and Community course, led by Assistant Professor Myla Guevarra, attended the summit, gaining valuable exposure to advocacy in action.
If you would like to learn more about the San Mateo County Early Childhood Climate Action Plan, please click here. For additional information, you may email buildupsmc@gmail.com.
Article by Michelle Amaral
Photos by Mei Lee and Myla Guevarra
