Los Angeles City Council Awards Good Earthkeeping Honors to Sustainable Initiatives and Leaders

In a recent Los Angeles City Council meeting, significant strides were made towards sustainability and environmental responsibility, with multiple organizations being recognized for their efforts in recycling and eco-friendly practices.

The council presented the Good Earthkeeping Award to Tom Stolnick, the general manager of a local airport facility, for their commitment to sustainable building practices. In 1999, the airport remodeled three of its facilities, incorporating sustainable design elements throughout the demolition and construction phases. This included reusing and recycling materials such as furniture, wood, metal, and glass, which would have otherwise contributed to landfill waste. The project also featured energy-efficient installations like low-flush toilets and energy-efficient windows, showcasing a model for other businesses in the city to follow.

Another highlight of the meeting was the recognition of Looney Bins, a recycling company based in Sun Valley. They have made a significant impact by collecting and repurposing materials from Hollywood studios, diverting thousands of tons of waste from landfills. Their efforts include reclaiming wood, drywall, and polystyrene, which are then reused in various projects, including those benefiting the Special Olympics. Looney Bins was awarded for their innovative approach to recycling and their contributions to environmental sustainability.

The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers was also honored for their comprehensive recycling programs, which have collectively diverted over 24,800 tons of waste from landfills in recent years. Their initiatives not only focus on recycling but also on purchasing recycled goods, thereby closing the loop in the recycling process. This commitment has resulted in significant cost savings for the industry while supporting local programs like L.A. SHARES, which provides materials for arts education in schools.

The meeting underscored the importance of community involvement in sustainability efforts, with council members encouraging residents and businesses to adopt similar practices. As Los Angeles continues to lead the way in environmental initiatives, these awards serve as a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect the planet for future generations.