Efforts to reform the USA's criminal justice system and to slow the effects of a changing climate are often deliberated, but rarely connected. Current legislative action to reduce recidivism-via the First Step Act of 2018-and a landmark proposal to reduce carbon emissions-the Green New Deal-dominate headlines and debate. Community engagement is a critical factor in ensuring these programs address distributive inequities and promote human well-being. In this paper, the authors propose a synergistic potential of strategic action on these two societal issues. An analysis and synthesis of the literature shows that vocational correctional programs in renewable energy emerge as a means to both reduce recidivism and set a path to a low-carbon future. We offer detailson successful policies and programs supporting criminal justice reform and climate action and conclude by offering specific recommendations for legislation, hiring practices, and outreach.