Orinda is a Contra Costa County climate leader in its sustainable efforts. Falling under the California Regional Water Quality Control jurisdiction, Orinda has adopted a Green Infrastructure Plan. This plan changes the community's infrastructure from gray to green, where instead of water going directly into storm drains, is now used by plants and percolates into the ground. Types of green infrastructure that are commonly implemented are rain gardens, bioswales, green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and porous pavement. This is a part of an effort to reduce pollution flowing into the bay, but green infrastructure has additional benefits of better air quality, property prices, and recreation.
The Orinda Parks & Rec Department is looking for volunteers. In addition, The Orinda Association Volunteer Center is also looking for volunteers in several other capacities.