Sustainable LA Grand Challenge

The 2017 Sustainable LA Grand Challenge Environmental Report Card (ERC) for Los Angeles County (LA County) on Energy and Air Quality offers an in-depth look at the region’s sustainability efforts focusing on the energy we use, greenhouse gas emissions, and the air we breathe. The LA County Environmental Report Card is the only comprehensive environmental report card for a megacity in the world. This ERC assesses 21 indicators that fall into five categories: Stationary Energy Use; Transportation; Renewable Energy Resources; Greenhouse Gas Emissions; and Air Quality and Human Health Impacts. A majority of these indicators are entirely new areas of inquiry for the ERC, and together will provide a broader picture of current conditions compared to the 2015 ERC. Grades were assigned in each category based on compliance with environmental laws or numeric standards where applicable, on our best professional judgment, and on historical improvements and context. This year’s grades range from C-/ Incomplete to B, and although there is progress towards meeting local and state goals, and a number of new standards and regulations that will undoubtedly have a positive impact in years to come.