Sustainable SGV Coalition
The Sustainable SGV Coalition is a group of residents and organizations advocating for healthier, greener, and more resilient communities through multibenefit projects that protect our environment and public health.
About
How would you help build a healthier, more sustainable community? Would you plant trees, create neighborhood parks connected by walking trails or bike paths, redesign streets for pedestrian safety, or improve public transit access to schools, grocery stores, libraries, and parks? These actions can collectively improve air quality, reduce heat, capture and conserve water, and improve overall physical and mental wellbeing.
History
Sustainable SGV was formed in 2019 by concerned residents who joined APIFM’s Clean Air SGV campaign which used community-based research and stakeholder collaboration to advocate for cleaner air in the region. Originally named the Clean Air SGV Stakeholder Working Group, Coalition members included elected officials, teachers, students, and community leaders. Since then, the coalition has grown from 27 members to over 100 members.
What We Do
The Sustainable SGV coalition meets quarterly at various locations within the West San Gabriel Valley. These gatherings offer residents the chance to learn and take action on local sustainability efforts, environmental justice policies, and projects that promote clean air, urban greening, stormwater capture, active transportation, and safer streets for pedestrians and cyclists.
Participants also have opportunities to connect and build relationships with other residents. To ensure greater accessibility and inclusivity, coalition meetings are hosted during weekends for two hours, with catering, children’s activities, and interpretation if needed.
Community Engagement
The Coalition believes that effective solutions require active community involvement. Our engagement efforts have included:
- Public workshops, forums, and listening sessions.
- Community walk audits and site visits.
- Educational programs on stormwater, green schoolyards, and infrastructure planning.
- Hands-on learning such as DIY air purifier workshops and rain barrel installations.
- Technical trainings and peer-to-peer learning for community leaders.
If you’re interested in getting involved, email us at: sustainablesgv@apifm.org
What we're doing together
- Stormwater Capture Planning: Collaborating with community leaders to identify multi-benefit sites for water capture and retention.
- Safe Streets Advocacy: Supporting community calls for improved pedestrian and bike safety, particularly around schools.
- Rain Barrel Distribution & Education: Helping residents capture rainwater for reuse while reducing local runoff.
- DIY Air Purifier Workshops: Educating residents on how to protect themselves from poor air quality during wildfire and pollution events.
