Los Angeles is taking steps to combat rising temperatures and inadequate shade through a new initiative called ShadeLA. This effort, led by USC Dornsife Public Exchange in collaboration with UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation, aims to expand the urban tree canopy and shade infrastructure across the region. The initiative seeks to address the dangerous impact of heat, which disproportionately affects low-income communities and communities of color.
ShadeLA plans to leverage the attention surrounding upcoming global sporting events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and Super Bowl LXI, culminating with the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The initiative will focus on expanding access to shade in communities that need it most, as well as at Olympic venue sites.
The campaign is structured around four goals: expanding shade through design competitions and pilot projects; preserving existing shade; guiding new infrastructure placement using mapping tools; and mobilizing community involvement through planning events and toolkits.
UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk stated, “ShadeLA is a powerful example of how UCLA research and collaborations lead to real-world impact.” USC interim President Beong-Soo Kim emphasized the importance of sustainable urban forestry in improving quality of life for Los Angeles residents.
Heat remains a significant weather-related threat in Los Angeles, particularly for vulnerable populations. Shaded areas can significantly reduce “feels-like” temperatures, making them an effective solution for reducing heat risk.
The Luskin Center for Innovation’s National Shade Map reveals that urbanized areas of Los Angeles County have less shade than the national average. Edith de Guzman from the Luskin Center highlighted the importance of evidence-based solutions for envisioning a livable future for Los Angeles.
Monica Dean from USC Dornsife Public Exchange noted that ShadeLA addresses heat as not just an environmental issue but also a public health challenge. LA28 has committed to incorporating sustainable solutions throughout its planning processes.
By coordinating with local communities, USC and UCLA aim to model collaborative climate action while creating safer public spaces.
