By Lookout Staff
January 20, 2022 -- The City of Santa Monica has achieved Platinum Certification under the LEED for Cities program for its sustainability efforts, City officials announced Thursday.
The certification recognizes the City for "implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions aimed at improving sustainability and the standard of living for Santa Monica residents," officials said.
Created by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED is the world’s most widely used green building rating system and evaluates a city's performance in a number of areas.
These include energy, water, waste, transportation, education, health, safety, prosperity and equitability, officials said.
“For more than 25 years we have been using the power of community to enhance our resources, prevent harm to the natural environment and human health, and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community for the sake of current and future generations,” said Shannon Parry, the City’s Chief Sustainability Officer.
“This recognition is an acknowledgment of those efforts and an invitation to celebrate our successes," Perry said.
"It is also an opportunity to look forward and identify new places to lead and to make positive change with and for our community.”
Santa Monica became the first city to achieve Platinum level certification in LEED for Cities Version 4.1 by achieving more than 80 points.
In earning its certification, Santa Monica was recognized for reducing emissions 60 percent below 1990 levels and providing 100 percent renewable energy to 94 percent of properties.
It was also recognized for working on an ecosystem health assessment and the distribution of green and natural spaces, officials said.
The City also earned high grades for its smart transportation programs, residents’ access to transit and the overall distribution of public amenities.
"Santa Monica received points for every credit in the Quality of Life category with outcomes associated with education attainment, civic participation, and community engagement standing out," officials said.
The City also received credit for its work on the sustainability rights ordinance, disposable food service ware ordinance, Zero Emissions Delivery Zone and Exposition Light Rail Project.
Santa Monica is the 21st local government to certify in LEED for Cities Version 4.1, officials said.
“The City of Santa Monica’s LEED certification demonstrates tremendous sustainability and climate leadership,” said Peter Templeton, USGBC's president and CEO.
“LEED for Cities was created to help improve our living standard and ensure every citizen has access to healthy, green and high performing places and spaces," Templeton said.
"Santa Monica is a prime example of how innovative planning and collaboration can help achieve sustainability and resilience goals.”
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