A Resilient Future: LA’s Climate Goals
This image was generated with DALL-E
Los Angeles is the most climate-vulnerable city in the country.
The good news is, the county is tackling climate change head-on with its ambitious Green New Deal initiative. The initiative’s goal and targets aren’t just about reducing our carbon emissions—they're about building a resilient, sustainable city where the community thrives together.
We’ve selected 5 climate goals that are most actionable for everyday Angelenos from the Green New Deal as well as from other leading climate and environmental stakeholders in LA. Together, we can make a real difference!
1. Increase landfill diversion rate to 95% ♻️
Resilience theme:
Waste
Target:
Divert 95% of waste from landfills through composting and reusables.
Why it matters:
Landfills contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. Reducing waste through composting and recycling not only lessens landfill use but also enriches our soil and reduces pollution.
How you can help:
Start composting food scraps at home.
Reduce single-use plastics and opt for reusable items.
Participate in local recycling programs and initiatives.
2. Source 80% of LA's water locally by 2045 💧
Resilience theme:
Water
Target:
Meet the vast majority of LA's water needs with local sources.
Why it matters:
Relying on imported water isn't sustainable, especially as climate change makes our water supply more unpredictable. By capturing rainwater, reducing consumption, and improving water recycling, we can ensure a reliable, local water supply that supports our city's needs.
How you can help:
Adopt water-efficient habits in the home.
Install rain barrels to capture and use rainwater.
Transition to water-efficient appliances and fixtures.
Landscape with drought-tolerant plants to reduce water use.
3. Retain LA's status as a biodiversity hotspot 🌿
Resilience theme:
Biodiversity
Target:
Achieve zero net loss of biodiversity.
Why it matters:
Biodiversity is crucial for resilient ecosystems. It means healthier soils, cleaner air, and more robust natural systems that can adapt to changes. Protecting and enhancing our local habitats ensures a thriving environment for plants, animals, and people.
How you can help:
Create native habitats in your garden by planting local species.
Avoid using pesticides and chemicals that harm wildlife.
Support urban food gardens and community orchards.
4. Transition to 100% renewable energy 🌞
Resilience theme:
Renewable energy
Target:
Transition LA to 100% renewable energy.
Why it matters:
Renewable energy reduces our dependence on fossil fuels, cuts greenhouse gas emissions, and fosters a cleaner environment. Moving towards solar, wind, and other renewable sources will make LA a leader in sustainable energy.
How you can help:
Sign up for OhmConnect to help keep the grid clean and reduce your energy bills.
Switch to renewable energy providers if available.
Install solar panels on your home or support community solar projects.
Advocate for policies that promote renewable energy in your community.
5. Make LA 7 degrees cooler 🌳
Resilience theme:
Tree canopy and temperature
Target:
Increase tree cover over urbanized county land to 40%.
Why it matters:
Ever notice how much cooler it feels under a tree? Trees provide shade, reduce heat islands, and improve air quality. Achieving this target means planting more trees in our neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces. Imagine a city where green canopies line the streets, making it cooler and more pleasant for everyone.
How you can help:
Plant and care for trees in your yard or local community.
Participate in community tree-planting events.
Advocate for more green spaces in urban planning.
By working together on these five key goals, we can transform Los Angeles into a more resilient, sustainable, and vibrant city. Each action you take—whether it's planting a tree, conserving water, or composting—contributes to a healthier environment and a better future for us all.