Celebrating Efforts to Encourage Environmental Protections and Sustainability

Administrative and Operational Steps Taken to Go Green

April 22, 2025 – In commemoration of the 55^th anniversary of Earth Day, and celebrating this year’s theme, Our Power, Our Planet, the Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA) is doing its part in the effort to remind everyone around the globe to unite behind renewable energy.

Earth Day serves not only as a reminder of the importance of caring for our planet and preserving our natural resources, but of our collective responsibility to strive for both big and small environmental goals, such as everyday deeds that can make a difference. As an example of the renewable energy efforts occurring within the agency, the LACDA recently completed a solar renovation project at its South Bay Gardens (SBG) senior public housing site in South Los Angeles County. The project included the demolition of an existing structure and installation of new carports with solar roofing. The incentive for this project was two-fold; it not only decreased the LACDA’s cost for common area electricity but also provided senior residents with a consumption offset discount on their energy bills based on the solar power generated which resulted in reduced energy bills.

This latest infrastructure upgrade at SBG was the next step in the agency’s ongoing commitment to sustainable building improvements. For example, in September 2024, the LACDA activated its new solar panels at the Alhambra headquarters. Not only will the initiative contribute to a cleaner planet by utilizing green power, but it will also deliver long-term cost savings for the agency through a gradual reduction of almost 70% on electricity expenses.

While large-scale projects like the solar panel installation will have a lasting impact and support long-term sustainability, the LACDA also makes a conscious effort to take small steps toward environment protections in its day-to-day operations.  For example, the agency uses an e-cycle service to dispose of recyclable computer equipment and electronics that are no longer used. Additionally, the agency’s contracted paper service picks up the paper bins once per month and ensures that 100% of collected materials are recycled.

“Each year, the LACDA renews its commitment to support the collective goal to not only respond to community needs, but to do so responsibly,” said Emilio Salas, LACDA Executive Director. “Through the forward-thinking ideas and hard work of our team to move toward cloud-based operating solutions, increasing recycling efforts, renewable energy, electric vehicle usage, and installing more onsite electric vehicle charging stations, the LACDA is proud to continue contributing to a more sustainable County.”

According to Earthday.org, renewable technologies like wind and solar have become the most cost-effective sources of power. This shift not only helps reduce electricity costs but also fosters economic growth by creating hundreds of thousands of new, well-paying local jobs.