Oceanside city sign. (Photo by albertc111, iStock Getty Images)
Project O, a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring and protecting ocean health, has certified the city of Oceanside as a “Blue City” through its Blue City Network, it was announced May 13.
The certification process uses a comprehensive, data-driven assessment to measure a city’s commitment to sustainability and marine conservation. Other regional certified Blue Cities include Encinitas, Solana Beach and San Clemente.
With this designation, Oceanside joins a growing coalition of cities across California that have taken tangible action to safeguard the environment. The city earned 430 points out of a possible 500, placing it in the prestigious Ocean Hero Tier—the highest level of achievement within the BCN framework.
“We’re honored to welcome Oceanside into the Blue City Network,” Project O Chief Operating Officer Evelina Marchetti said. “This certification highlights Oceanside’s leadership and measurable progress in protecting our ocean and waterways. We hope their example inspires other coastal cities to take bold environmental action.”
The Blue City Network Certification allows communities to credibly and transparently track progress toward overall sustainability objectives. The assessment focuses on four solution areas: waste minimization, climate protection and community resilience, water quality and efficiency, and healthy ecosystems. Participants also gain access to proven resources and blueprints provided by environmental nonprofits, cities and governmental agencies working with the Blue City Network.
“We are proud to have the City of Oceanside recognized as the newest certified member of the Blue City Network by Project O,” Oceanside Mayor Esther Sanchez said. “With this recognition, Oceanside joins fourteen other California coastal cities in the Network that demonstrate, through action, a strong commitment to protecting our coastline, conserving natural resources and serving as a community leader in sustainable practices.”
The recognition was based on Oceanside’s environmental efforts such as:
Becoming the first city in the county to construct an advanced water purification facility. Pure Water Oceanside was completed in 2023.
Launching the Green Oceanside Kitchen, a state-of-the-art food recovery and preservation facility that diverts food from the landfill and helps feed people.
Implementing the RE:BEACH Oceanside project, a coastal resilience initiative underway that aims to use nature-based solutions to coastal erosion.
Preparing to adopt the Smart & Sustainable Corridors Plan, which will guide infill development along major transit corridors.
Engaging the community through Green Oceanside programs with cleanup events and sustainability tips and services.
The Blue City Network is a program of the Laguna Beach-based nonprofit Project O. Founded by entrepreneur and ocean advocate Rich German, Project O’s mission is to restore, protect, and sustain the ocean and the sacred life within it. Through education, advocacy, and strategic partnerships, Project O engages communities and future generations to take action against ocean pollution and climate-related threats.
To learn more about the Blue City Network and Project O, visit project-o.org.
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