Sustainability in the U.S.: A closer look at how Los Angeles is going green
- Angela Novelli
- Apr 30
- 3 min read
As Earth Day passes once more, we are reminded of the importance of sustainability efforts in different industries and organizations in order to reduce our carbon footprint. Especially as new and advanced technologies like AI are becoming more and more widespread, it is critical to explore ways to continue to protect our planet. The combustion of fossil fuels has increased over the past 30 years, leading to a 50% rise in annual global greenhouse gas emissions.
Sustainability practices in the U.S. are becoming more innovative as concerns of climate change continue to grow. Cities like Los Angeles are paving the way for a “greener” way of living, and it is on the path to becoming the greenest major city in the country. Keep reading to learn more about this as we highlight the different ways Los Angeles is going green.
The Port of LA and Zero-Waste Practices
It may come as no surprise that big cities like Los Angeles produce millions upon millions of pounds of waste annually, with the vast majority of it heading straight for a landfill. There are different strategies seen across the country and even around the world for reducing waste, and the Port of LA (PLA) is on a mission for a zero-waste future for its facilities. PLA has a plan for established green policies, waste reduction initiatives, and recycling programs with the goal of 95% landfill diversion by 2035, and 100% diversion by 2050.
The city of Los Angeles generates a wide variety of waste, including office by-products, construction and demolition debris, food waste, hazardous materials, and marine debris, which PLA is aiming to reduce. This will be done by reducing waste generation, expanding existing recycling programs, conducting tenant outreach, developing new organics, and more, in addition to stricter regulations on recycling different materials like paper and plastics. Other efforts include:
Diverting organic materials such as food waste, mulch, and compost from landfills
Repurposing concrete and asphalt instead of disposing of them
Safe and responsible disposal and recycling of medical waste, e-waste, used oil, and batteries to avoid environmental pollution
Implementing sustainability initiatives across the port, including training programs, outreach, and Green Team leadership development
The Litter Control Program (LCP) is an initiative focused on decreasing the amount of trash and litter that enters harbor waters due to port operations. One objective of the LCP is the complete establishment of a trash capture system (FCS). This includes the installation, operation, and ongoing maintenance of such a system across all storm drain inlets that collect stormwater discharge from identified priority land use (PLU) zones.
Green Business Initiatives
Businesses and organizations can be large contributors of waste and energy consumption, which is why Los Angeles implemented several initiatives to help them reduce their carbon footprint. The city is promoting innovation and practical solutions that assist businesses in minimizing their environmental impact and operating expenses by utilizing clean technology as a catalyst for economic growth. Here are a few examples:
LA Green Building Code: The LA Department of Building and Safety encourages sustainable construction to help businesses save money and reduce their environmental impact, while promoting public health and safety through positive environmental design.
Commercial Lighting Incentive Program: Rebates are available for businesses that install energy-efficient lighting and controls through the Commercial Lighting Incentive Program.
Commercial SoCal Water $mart Water Rebate Program: The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power provides a variety of rebates and incentives to promote water efficiency and sustainable landscaping for businesses. These include rebates for appliances and irrigation equipment.
Food Service Program: The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power provides financial incentives to businesses that purchase energy-efficient cooking and food processing equipment, including ovens, griddles, steam cookers, holding cabinets, and more.
Becoming the Greenest City in the U.S.
For several years, San Diego has held the title for the greenest city in the U.S. However, Los Angeles may soon come to take the spotlight thanks to its many green initiatives that have emerged. Here are a few more sustainable facts about LA:
Los Angeles has the most EV charging stations in the United States – the city is a national leader in clean energy innovation and sustainability, with historic expansion of EV infrastructure
250,000 Los Angeles homes now have clean power thanks to the Eland Solar & Storage Center, which is helping the city reach its goal of using 100% renewable energy by 2035
Los Angeles has exceeded its target of 100,000 green jobs by 2025, achieving this milestone a year early, while also funding climate resilience initiatives, including expanding cooling centers and air conditioning rebates for at-risk communities
The city of Los Angeles has implemented many different initiatives and practices in order to improve sustainability for its citizens. Advanced green technology is beneficial to cities in all different kinds of ways and we will continue to explore its uses across the world.
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