The California State Bear has left the flag to rally, teach, and activate fellow Californians to better manage their energy use, water, and other precious resources this summer. Recent national studies have revealed the effects of climate change on the nation – and California is facing a near record drought. We recently sat down with the California State Bear to talk more about his campaign to educate Californians and beyond on energy saving techniques for the summer.

Hello Mr. Bear! Thank you for taking time out of your day to meet with us. 

No problem, it’s always great to chat with other members of the Golden State.

What lead you to the decision of leaving the State Flag? 

Well, it’s no lie, I love my day job, but from up there I’ve seen that we need to manage water and energy use to help our Golden State stay that way. So I decided taking a little time off the flag to help educate Californians was something I really needed to do.

What’s unique about California’s climate right now? 

One of the many great things about our state is obviously the warm weather, but as we move into summer, temps are going to go up a little higher, and with the lack of rain our state is drying out. A drought is definitely on the horizon.

What are some energy saving techniques Californians can begin right now? 

Well, you can start with little things like just turning off the lights when you leave a room, or bigger things like upgrading to energy efficient appliances. And since it takes energy to move water, maximizing the water you use is another great energy saving practice.

Why should Californians go into summer with a more energy-saving mindset? 

Like I mentioned, it’s going to be a dry summer with record high temperatures, and therefore we all have to do our part to help California conserve it’s energy resources.

What are some of the tools available for Californians to learn more energy saving techniques?

My friends over at Energy Upgrade California are the experts when it comes to energy saving techniques. They have all sorts of tips and tools to help Californian’s manage their energy use. Their website, EnergyUpgradeCA.org is a great place to start.

Where can we learn more about Energy Upgrade California? 

Check out EnergyUpgradeCA.org, and also stop by their Facebook and Twitter page, they’re always posting innovative new ways to manage energy.

Lastly, check out this video of the California State Bear demonstrating some of the energy saving techniques he’s learned from EnergyUpgradeCA.org.