Los Angeles County: A Business Case for Sustainability

As the largest public works organization in the nation, the economic and social footprint of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works is great. Yet, Public Works had placed little focus on the economic and social pillars of sustainability. Leveraging its average $500M annual contracting and purchasing potential, Los Angeles County has embarked on programs that provide contracting equity, utilize local workforce, and enhance the local economy. The goal of these programs is to encourage start-up businesses, growth of existing small businesses, creation of new local and disadvantaged worker employment opportunities, and the achievement of social and environmental goals through innovation and private sector partnerships. In the midst of a cultural change, Public Works has strategically aligned itself with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of economic growth, innovation and infrastructure, and sustainable communities.