THE IMPORTANCE OF SUSTAINABILITY:
Information and educational resources

The Westwood Greenway stands as a vibrant example of how sustainability and community action can transform urban spaces into thriving ecological sanctuaries. Central to our mission is the planting of native plants—an essential practice for preserving biodiversity, conserving water, and fostering a resilient ecosystem.

Beyond native planting, the Greenway also supports advocacy for 100% California-native landscapes in both public and private spaces, highlights the role of native plants in mitigating climate change, and educates the community on sustainable practices. Our efforts align with broader initiatives, such as Los Angeles’s Green New Deal, UCLA’s Sustainable LA Grand Challenges, and local programs promoting water-efficient landscaping and the removal of toxic exposures.

Here is more information on sustainability and how native planting supports long-term ecological balance and environmental stewardship.

Explore these educational, informational, and landscape-focused projects and resources

Why plant California native trees and landscaping plants? →
A great article by Charles Miller of LA Native on why we need to advocate for public and private spaces to by 100% California native plants.

Recommended California Native Trees and Plants for Coastal Area →
A comprehensive list of California Native Trees

Climate Change (Los Angeles County Department of Public Health) →
This comprehensive roadmap outlines a path to protect Los Angeles County residents from the harmful effects of toxic exposure and climate change.

L.A.’s Green New Deal →
Our battle against climate change is a moral imperative, an environmental emergency, and an economic opportunity. Read how Los Angeles is planning to lead the world toward a low-carbon, green-energy future.

UCLA Grand Challenges Sustainable LA →
More than 250 UCLA faculty, researchers and scholars are committed to tackling climate change and making the Sustainable LA Grand Challenge vision a reality.

Introductory Landscape Training Classes →
LADWP provides free introductory Landscape Training classes for customers. These classes are available online and in person and provide a cursory overview of the benefits of a California Friendly Native Plant landscape, how to remove turf and replace it with low-water-using landscape, and garden design and plant selection.