In an exciting twist that might finally make you rethink that $5 avocado toast, California is partnering up with 21 Brazilian states to tackle pollution like it’s a bad Tinder match. Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) alongside Brazil’s Governor Renato Casagrande of Espírito Santo, which kicks off a bold four-year plan aiming to not only swat environmental concerns like pesky flies but also to foster sustainable economic growth. Because who doesn’t want a cleaner planet and a chance at employment while they’re at it?

This partnership, aptly dubbed Consórcio Brasil Verde (CBV), aims for nothing short of a miracle: reducing pollution, safeguarding public health, and, yes, creating good-paying jobs. Finally, a reason to leave the house and get a new job other than to fund that monthly gym membership you never use.

Goals of this collaboration include cleaner air and efficient transportation, among other buzzwords that make eco-friendly enthusiasts salivate. And if you thought California was already the eco-warrior of the U.S., think again! The Golden State met its 2020 climate target six whole years ahead of schedule, proving it’s not just full of techies but climate activists too.

Newsom is definitely on a jet-setter kick when it comes to climate partnerships. From hooking up with South Korea’s Gyeonggi Province to cozying up with China’s National Development and Reform Commission and signing MOUs left and right, Newsom’s busy flirting with global states in the name of sustainability.

But hold on. Is there a hidden agenda? California has been a trendsetter in climate policy, but let’s be real: how much can a few well-meaning agreements accomplish when corporate interests often overshadow the environmental good? Sure, we’re all for partnerships and love a good plan to save the trees, but will this actually lead to meaningful change or is it just another way to appease the masses?

As California engages in more international collaborations, one can’t help but wonder if these moves will get us closer to ecological nirvana, or simply provide more photo ops for politicians. So while we appreciate the effort, we’ll be watching closely.

After all, change doesn’t just happen because someone signs a piece of paper. Let’s hope to see tangible results.

Fingers crossed, everyone!