What are any cost restraints for COA other OOS or private schools in comparison to instate at a UC school? Some schools will offer great merit aid and financial assistance, others not enough to equal instate COA. I will link a post from @eandesmom, she did quite a bit of research this past year and this link discusses the final choices her son narrowed down: alk.collegeconfidential.com/college-search-selection/1973932-environmental-studies-policy-uvm-v-wwu-v-ursinus.html#latest
While not on the West Coast, I will suggest Eckerd College. Great merit and financial aid. Good program for environmental studies. Sustainable campus, research opportunities and study abroad choices in the field. Numerous internship opportunities.