GUSTINE — The city of Gustine has been officially designated a Clean California Community through Caltrans’ statewide Clean California Initiative, joining a select group of only 30 communities recognized for their commitment to environmental improvement and civic engagement.
The designation highlights a series of community-driven efforts aimed at beautifying public spaces, reducing waste, and fostering environmental awareness among residents. According to Jose Flores of the Gustine Downtown Business Association, the recognition reflects years of collaborative work across sectors.
“On behalf of the Gustine Downtown Business Association, I am excited to share some wonderful news for our community,” Flores said. “Gustine has officially been designated as a Clean California Community through Caltrans’ Clean California Initiative — joining only 30 communities in the state to receive this recognition.”
Flores emphasized that the honor was earned through the sustained efforts of local residents, businesses, and volunteers. “This designation is a testament to the ongoing work of our residents, businesses, and volunteers who have come together to make Gustine cleaner, greener, and more welcoming,” he said.
Among the initiatives contributing to Gustine’s designation are the Zero Food Waste program, which aims to reduce organic waste through redistribution and composting; regular downtown and park clean-up events organized by local volunteers; the Greener Spaces gardening initiative, which encourages native planting and beautification; and hands-on environmental education programs for youth that promote sustainability and civic responsibility.
The city’s designation comes at a time when small communities across California are increasingly stepping up to address environmental challenges through local action. Gustine’s approach has emphasized education, volunteerism, and sustainable practices tailored to the needs of its residents. By integrating environmental goals into everyday community life, the city has created a model that other rural towns may look to replicate.
Flores noted that the Greener Spaces gardening initiative has not only beautified public areas but also fostered a sense of ownership among participants. Local families, school groups, and civic organizations have contributed to planting native species, maintaining shared green spaces, and learning about water-wise landscaping. These efforts have helped reduce urban heat, improve stormwater management, and enhance the visual appeal of downtown corridors.
In addition to physical improvements, Gustine’s environmental education programs have played a key role in shaping the next generation of stewards, with lessons like composting, recycling, and the impact of litter on local ecosystems.
The Clean California Initiative, launched by Caltrans in partnership with state and local agencies, seeks to reduce litter, create jobs, and revitalize public spaces across California. Communities selected for the Clean California designation must demonstrate measurable progress across multiple benchmarks, including waste reduction, beautification, and public engagement.
Launched by Governor Gavin Newsom in partnership with Caltrans, Keep America Beautiful, and Keep California Beautiful, the Clean California Initiative has removed more than 2.6 million cubic yards of litter statewide and created over 18,000 jobs since its inception. The community designation program is its latest expansion, spotlighting cities that complete at least 10 of 15 sustainability benchmarks.
“This recognition is not just a milestone—it’s a reflection of what we can accomplish when we work together,” Flores said.
