Melting snow in the mountains feeds the network of dams and irrigation channels that make California the principle producer of fruit and wine for America. The ‘Sunshine State’ is critically dependent on this water supply for both its electricity industry and its vast agricultural sector. Both will suffer with climate change, but since the 1970s, and the Los Angeles smogs, Californians have been aware of the threats posed by mistreating their environment. Their economy, including tourism, is critically dependent on using resources wisely. The state is therefore using progressive legislation to encourage the uptake of low-carbon technologies, creating jobs and new economic opportunities as a result.