West LA Times

Santa Monica's Sustainable City Plan, adopted by the City Council on September 20, 1994, has been a cornerstone of the city's sustainability efforts for three decades. The plan, known for its comprehensive framework and measurable targets, has positioned Santa Monica as a global leader in sustainability.

Inspired by the Rio Convention of 1992, the Sustainable City Plan (SCP) aims to enhance resources, prevent harm to the environment and human health, and promote the well-being of the community. Over the years, the SCP has led to the development of strategic plans such as the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, the Zero Waste Strategic Plan, and the Electric Vehicle Action Plan.

Recent achievements by Santa Monica include earning Platinum level LEED for Cities certification, constructing environmentally friendly buildings like City Hall East, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions significantly. The city has also expanded its community gardens, deployed electric buses, and implemented policies like the Mandatory Recycling Ordinance.

A spokesperson for Santa Monica emphasized, "This milestone of 30 years of sustainability in Santa Monica, and the city’s vision for a sustainable future, would not be possible without the support of this community. Your actions, even the small ones, have a collective impact." They further added, "Here are some small steps you can take to reduce your environmental impact even more."

These steps include conserving water, collecting water for reuse, reducing waste, diverting waste through recycling and composting, enhancing the natural environment, electrification, energy conservation, sustainable transportation choices, and supporting local initiatives.

As Santa Monica celebrates 30 years of sustainable practices, the city encourages its residents to continue making environmentally conscious decisions to ensure a greener future. Together, the community's efforts will uphold Santa Monica as a beacon for sustainability and climate resiliency for the next 30 years.