Plastic Tides is a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating plastic pollution in the world's oceans and waterways. Their mission is to inspire and empower individuals to take action against plastic pollution, promoting sustainable practices and advocating for a healthier planet.

Mission: Plastic Tides’ mission is to raise awareness about the impact of plastic pollution on marine environments and to drive change by engaging communities, educating the public, and advocating for policies that reduce plastic waste. They aim to create a world where people are conscious of their plastic consumption and actively work to protect the oceans.

Work and Initiatives:

Plastic Tides Youth Leaders Program (PTYL): This program empowers young people to become environmental leaders in their communities. Through mentorship and education, participants develop and implement projects that address plastic pollution and environmental sustainability.

Expeditions and Research: Plastic Tides conducts expeditions that combine adventure with environmental research. These expeditions often involve paddleboarding to remote locations, collecting data on plastic pollution, and raising awareness through storytelling and media outreach.

Education and Outreach: The organization offers educational resources and workshops aimed at informing the public about the dangers of plastic pollution and the importance of reducing single-use plastics. They work with schools, community groups, and businesses to spread their message.

Advocacy and Policy Work: Plastic Tides advocates for policies that reduce plastic waste and protect marine environments. They engage with policymakers, support plastic bans, and promote the adoption of sustainable alternatives.

#NoSUP Campaign: This initiative encourages individuals and businesses to pledge to stop using single-use plastics (SUP). The campaign raises awareness about the impact of plastic waste and promotes the use of reusable and sustainable products.

Community Cleanups: Plastic Tides organizes and participates in local and global cleanup efforts to remove plastic waste from coastlines, rivers, and other natural areas. These cleanups also serve to educate participants and inspire further action.

Impact: Plastic Tides focuses on engaging people from all walks of life, especially youth, to take action against plastic pollution. By combining education, advocacy, and hands-on initiatives, they strive to create a global movement toward a plastic-free future.

For more information check out Plastic Tides.

Work and Initiatives:

Community Engagement and Education: Long Beach Fresh organizes events, workshops, and campaigns to educate the public about the benefits of a local food system. They work to increase awareness of healthy eating habits, sustainable agriculture, and food justice issues.

Local Food Advocacy: The organization advocates for policies that support local farmers, food producers, and small businesses in the Long Beach area. This includes working with local government to create favorable conditions for urban agriculture, farmers markets, and food entrepreneurship.

Farmers Market Support: Long Beach Fresh supports local farmers markets by promoting them to the community and helping connect farmers with customers. They also work to ensure that farmers markets are accessible to all, including those using food assistance programs like SNAP.

Food Access Programs: The organization works to improve access to fresh, healthy food in underserved areas of Long Beach. This includes initiatives to bring local produce to schools, community centers, and low-income neighborhoods.

Food Systems Mapping: Long Beach Fresh conducts research and mapping to identify gaps and opportunities in the local food system. This helps guide their work and inform community stakeholders about the current state of food access and production in Long Beach.

Local Food Directory: They maintain a directory of local food producers, vendors, and resources, making it easier for residents to find and support local food options.

Impact: Long Beach Fresh plays a critical role in building a resilient local food system that benefits both producers and consumers. By connecting different parts of the food supply chain and advocating for sustainable practices, they work to ensure that everyone in Long Beach has access to fresh, healthy, and locally produced food. Their initiatives not only promote better health outcomes but also support the local economy and contribute to the sustainability of the community.

For more information visit Long Beach Fresh.

Friends of the Los Angeles River (FoLAR) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection, restoration, and revitalization of the Los Angeles River. Their mission is to transform the LA River into a vibrant, healthy, and publicly accessible urban waterway that benefits both the environment and the surrounding communities.

Mission: FoLAR’s mission is to ensure that the Los Angeles River is a sustainable and thriving natural resource that connects and enhances the lives of all residents. They aim to achieve this by advocating for the river’s restoration, engaging the community, and promoting policies that support ecological and recreational improvements.

Advocacy and Policy Work: FoLAR actively advocates for policies and projects that protect and restore the LA River. This includes working with local, state, and federal governments to influence decisions that impact the river’s health and accessibility, such as habitat restoration projects and green infrastructure development.

Education and Outreach: The organization runs educational programs designed to inform the public about the river’s history, ecology, and importance to the community. FoLAR’s education initiatives include river tours, school programs, workshops, and public events that raise awareness about the environmental and social significance of the river.

Habitat Restoration: FoLAR engages in habitat restoration projects along the LA River, focusing on improving water quality, enhancing biodiversity, and creating green spaces that serve both people and wildlife. These projects often involve replanting native vegetation, removing invasive species, and improving the river’s ecosystem.

Community Engagement: FoLAR works closely with communities along the river to ensure that revitalization efforts are inclusive and reflective of the needs and desires of local residents. They host events, art installations, and public forums to involve the community in the river’s transformation.

River Advocacy Corps: This initiative is a leadership development program that empowers young people and community members to become advocates for the river. Participants receive training in environmental science, policy, and advocacy, equipping them to lead efforts to protect and enhance the LA River.

Impact: FoLAR’s efforts have been instrumental in raising awareness about the LA River and driving momentum for its revitalization. Their work not only improves the environmental health of the river but also enhances the quality of life for the communities that live near it. Through education, advocacy, and hands-on restoration, FoLAR is helping to transform the LA River into a cherished public space that supports both ecological diversity and community well-being.

For more information visit FoLAR

LA Compost is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a healthy soil network in Los Angeles by connecting communities through local composting. Their mission is to empower communities to connect, educate, and create healthy soils through the practice of composting, ultimately diverting organic waste from landfills and reducing the city's carbon footprint.

Mission: LA Compost’s mission is to reconnect people with the soil and each other by creating opportunities for communities to engage in the composting process. They aim to reduce organic waste in landfills, support local food systems, and foster environmental stewardship through composting.

Education and Outreach: The organization provides educational resources and workshops to teach the public about the benefits of composting, how to compost effectively, and the importance of soil health. LA Compost works with schools, community groups, and individuals to raise awareness and build composting skills.

Food Waste Diversion: LA Compost partners with local businesses, farmers markets, and events to divert food waste from landfills by collecting organic waste and processing it into compost. This initiative helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports the local food system by creating nutrient-rich soil amendments.

Soil Stewardship: The organization emphasizes the importance of soil health as a foundation for a sustainable and resilient food system. By creating and distributing compost, LA Compost contributes to the regeneration of urban soils, which in turn supports local food production and improves the environment.

Compost Delivery and Distribution: LA Compost distributes finished compost to local gardens, farms, and community projects, promoting the use of locally produced compost to enhance soil fertility and productivity. This initiative helps close the loop on organic waste and supports sustainable urban agriculture.

Community Building: Through its composting initiatives, LA Compost fosters a sense of community by bringing people together to work on a shared goal of environmental stewardship. They create spaces where people can connect, learn from one another, and take collective action to improve their environment.

Impact: LA Compost plays a vital role in reducing organic waste in Los Angeles, promoting sustainable urban agriculture, and fostering environmental education and community engagement. By turning food scraps into valuable compost, they help create healthier soils, reduce landfill waste, and support local food systems. Their work not only benefits the environment but also strengthens community ties and encourages a culture of sustainability across the city.

For more information visit LA Compost

South Bay Parkland Conservancy (SBPC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and enhancement of open spaces, parklands, and natural habitats in the South Bay area of Los Angeles County. The organization focuses on creating and maintaining green spaces that provide ecological, recreational, and educational benefits to the local community.

Mission: The mission of the South Bay Parkland Conservancy is to protect and improve the natural environment in the South Bay region by preserving open spaces, enhancing parklands, and restoring native habitats. They aim to promote environmental stewardship and ensure that these natural resources are accessible for the enjoyment and education of current and future generations.

Work and Initiatives:

Habitat Restoration Projects: SBPC is involved in restoring native habitats in the South Bay area, including wetlands, coastal sage scrub, and other important ecosystems. These projects often involve removing invasive species, replanting native vegetation, and improving wildlife corridors.

Open Space Preservation: The conservancy works to acquire and protect open spaces in the South Bay region, preventing development that would harm the natural environment. By preserving these areas, SBPC helps maintain local biodiversity and provides residents with access to green spaces.

Parkland Enhancement: SBPC partners with local governments and community groups to improve existing parklands. This includes efforts to enhance park facilities, improve trail systems, and add native plantings that benefit both people and wildlife.

Community Engagement and Education: SBPC conducts outreach and educational programs to raise awareness about the importance of preserving open spaces and protecting the natural environment. They host events, workshops, and volunteer opportunities that engage the community in conservation efforts.

Advocacy and Policy Work: The conservancy advocates for policies that support the protection and enhancement of natural areas in the South Bay. They work with local officials, stakeholders, and residents to ensure that environmental considerations are prioritized in land use and development decisions.

Volunteer Programs: SBPC relies on volunteers for much of their restoration and maintenance work. They offer various volunteer opportunities, including tree plantings, habitat restoration activities, and cleanups, allowing community members to actively participate in the conservation of their local environment.

Impact: The South Bay Parkland Conservancy has a significant impact on the South Bay region by preserving and enhancing natural areas that provide ecological, recreational, and educational benefits. Their efforts help protect local wildlife, improve the quality of life for residents, and foster a culture of environmental stewardship in the community. Through their work, SBPC ensures that the natural beauty and ecological health of the South Bay are maintained for future generations.

For more information visit South Bay Parkland Conservancy

The Burbank Green Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility within the Burbank community. Their mission is to inspire and engage residents, businesses, and local government to adopt eco-friendly practices that contribute to a healthier, greener, and more sustainable city.

Mission: The mission of the Burbank Green Alliance is to educate and empower the community to reduce their environmental impact, conserve natural resources, and enhance the quality of life in Burbank through sustainable practices.

Work and Initiatives:

Community Education and Outreach: The Burbank Green Alliance conducts educational programs and workshops aimed at raising awareness about sustainability issues, such as energy conservation, waste reduction, water efficiency, and green building practices. These programs target a wide audience, including residents, schools, and businesses.

Sustainable Business Practices: The organization works closely with local businesses to help them adopt sustainable practices, such as reducing energy use, minimizing waste, and sourcing eco-friendly products. They may also recognize and promote businesses that demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability.

Advocacy and Policy Support: The Burbank Green Alliance advocates for local policies that promote environmental sustainability. This includes supporting initiatives related to renewable energy, green infrastructure, public transportation, and other measures that reduce the community’s carbon footprint.

Green Events and Campaigns: The organization hosts and participates in events that encourage sustainable living, such as Earth Day celebrations, clean-up events, tree plantings, and recycling drives. These events serve to engage the community and promote environmental stewardship.

Resource Sharing and Networking: Burbank Green Alliance acts as a hub for sustainability resources, providing information, tools, and networking opportunities for individuals and organizations interested in green practices. They may offer guides, directories, and other resources that help the community make environmentally responsible choices.

Collaboration with Local Government and Organizations: The organization collaborates with the City of Burbank, local schools, and other nonprofits to develop and implement sustainability initiatives. These partnerships help amplify their impact and ensure that sustainability efforts are coordinated across the community.

Impact: Through its various initiatives, the Burbank Green Alliance plays a key role in fostering a culture of sustainability in Burbank. By educating the community, supporting green businesses, and advocating for environmentally friendly policies, the organization helps reduce the city’s environmental footprint and improve the quality of life for its residents. Their work contributes to a more resilient and sustainable future for Burbank.

For more information visit Burbank Green Alliance

Ruckus Roots is a nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles that uses art and creativity to inspire environmental awareness and action. Their mission is to engage and empower communities, particularly young people, through eco-art projects that address environmental issues and promote sustainability.

Mission: Ruckus Roots’ mission is to cultivate creativity and environmental stewardship by providing communities with the tools and opportunities to engage in sustainable art projects. They aim to inspire positive change by connecting people with environmental issues through the power of art.

Sustainable Art Workshops: Ruckus Roots offers workshops that teach participants how to create art using recycled and sustainable materials. These workshops are often conducted in schools, community centers, and at public events, helping to spread environmental awareness through creative expression.

Community Murals and Public Art: The organization collaborates with artists and community members to create large-scale murals and public art pieces that highlight environmental themes. These works of art serve as both educational tools and community beautification projects, often involving local youth in the creation process.

Artivism Programs: Ruckus Roots integrates activism with art, encouraging participants to use their creative skills to advocate for environmental causes. These programs often involve creating art that addresses specific environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, or wildlife conservation, and using it to inspire community action.

Youth Empowerment: A core focus of Ruckus Roots is empowering young people to become environmental leaders. They work with schools and youth organizations to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to take meaningful action on environmental issues through artistic projects.

Collaborations with Artists and Environmentalists: Ruckus Roots frequently collaborates with local artists, environmentalists, and community organizations to amplify their impact. These partnerships help bring diverse perspectives and expertise to their projects, enriching the learning experience for participants.

Impact: Ruckus Roots has a significant impact on both the communities they serve and the broader movement for environmental sustainability. By combining art and environmental education, they create engaging, hands-on learning experiences that inspire participants to think critically about environmental issues and take action. Their projects not only raise awareness but also foster a sense of community and empowerment, particularly among young people, encouraging them to become active stewards of the environment.

For more information visit Ruckus Roots

Sprouts of Promise is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting healthy living and sustainability by fostering connections between local farmers, communities, and educational institutions. The organization focuses on educating people about the importance of fresh, locally grown food and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

Mission: The mission of Sprouts of Promise is to create a healthier community by supporting local agriculture, promoting access to fresh produce, and educating the public about the benefits of sustainable food systems.

Work and Initiatives:

Farmers Markets Support: Sprouts of Promise plays a crucial role in supporting farmers markets, particularly in urban areas where access to fresh produce can be limited. They work to ensure that these markets thrive by providing resources, promoting local farmers, and encouraging community participation.

Educational Programs: The organization runs educational initiatives aimed at teaching people, especially children and young adults, about the importance of healthy eating, sustainable agriculture, and the benefits of consuming locally grown food. This includes workshops, cooking demonstrations, and farm-to-table programs that connect consumers directly with producers.

Community Engagement: Sprouts of Promise actively engages with local communities to increase awareness of and participation in farmers markets. They organize events and campaigns that encourage people to buy and eat fresh, locally grown produce, and they work to make these markets accessible to everyone, including low-income families.

Sustainable Agriculture Advocacy: The organization advocates for sustainable farming practices that protect the environment, support local economies, and improve public health. They collaborate with farmers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to promote agricultural practices that are both environmentally friendly and economically viable.

Partnerships with Schools: Sprouts of Promise partners with schools to integrate healthy eating and sustainability into the curriculum. These partnerships often include school garden programs, farm tours, and educational materials that help students understand where their food comes from and why it matters.

Food Access and Equity: A key focus of Sprouts of Promise is ensuring that all members of the community, regardless of income, have access to fresh, healthy food. They work to increase the availability of produce in underserved areas and may offer programs that help subsidize the cost of fresh produce for low-income families.

Impact: Sprouts of Promise has a significant impact on both local agriculture and public health by promoting the consumption of fresh, locally grown food and supporting sustainable farming practices. Their efforts help build stronger connections between farmers and consumers, leading to a more resilient and equitable food system. Through education, community engagement, and advocacy, Sprouts of Promise fosters a culture of sustainability and healthy living in the communities they serve.

For more information visit Sprouts of Promise

Mountains Restoration Trust (MRT) is a nonprofit organization focused on the preservation, restoration, and stewardship of the Santa Monica Mountains in Southern California. The trust is dedicated to protecting the natural and cultural resources of this unique and diverse landscape through conservation, habitat restoration, and community engagement.

Mission: The mission of the Mountains Restoration Trust is to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources of the Santa Monica Mountains through habitat restoration, land acquisition, education, and community involvement. They aim to ensure that this vital ecosystem remains healthy and accessible for future generations.

Land Acquisition and Conservation: One of MRT's primary initiatives is the acquisition of land within the Santa Monica Mountains to prevent development and preserve open spaces. By purchasing and protecting key parcels of land, MRT helps to ensure that these areas remain natural and undeveloped, providing critical habitats for wildlife and recreational spaces for the community.

Stream and Watershed Restoration: MRT works to protect and restore the watersheds in the Santa Monica Mountains, focusing on improving water quality, enhancing riparian habitats, and preventing erosion. These efforts help to support aquatic life, protect drinking water sources, and maintain the health of the entire watershed.

Education and Outreach: The trust offers a range of educational programs designed to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and the unique ecology of the Santa Monica Mountains. These programs include school visits, nature walks, workshops, and volunteer opportunities that engage the public in hands-on conservation efforts.

Community Engagement and Volunteer Programs: MRT relies on volunteers for much of its restoration work. They offer numerous volunteer opportunities, such as tree plantings, habitat restoration activities, and cleanups. These programs not only help achieve conservation goals but also foster a sense of community and environmental stewardship.

Wildlife Corridor and Connectivity Projects: The organization is involved in efforts to maintain and enhance wildlife corridors that allow animals to move freely between different areas of the Santa Monica Mountains. This is critical for the survival of species that require large territories and helps maintain genetic diversity within populations.

Fire Recovery and Prevention: In response to the increasing threat of wildfires, MRT engages in fire recovery projects that restore burned areas and implement fire-resistant landscaping practices. They also work on fire prevention initiatives, such as removing invasive species that contribute to wildfire risk.

Impact: The Mountains Restoration Trust plays a crucial role in conserving the Santa Monica Mountains' unique natural landscapes and biodiversity. Through land acquisition, habitat restoration, and community education, MRT helps protect vital ecosystems, ensuring they remain intact for future generations. Their work also provides recreational and educational opportunities for the public, fostering a deeper connection to the natural environment and promoting a culture of conservation in the region.

For more information visit MRT

The Bay Foundation (TBF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring and enhancing the Santa Monica Bay and its watershed through science, education, community action, and partnerships. The foundation works to improve water quality, conserve natural resources, and promote sustainable environmental practices in the region.

Mission: The mission of The Bay Foundation is to restore and enhance the Santa Monica Bay and its watershed through efforts that improve water quality, conserve and rehabilitate natural habitats, and engage and educate the public in environmental stewardship.

Water Quality Improvement: The foundation works to improve water quality in the Santa Monica Bay by addressing sources of pollution, including urban runoff, wastewater discharge, and plastic pollution. TBF conducts research, implements best management practices, and collaborates with local governments and stakeholders to reduce pollution and protect the Bay's waters.

Kelp Forest Restoration: One of TBF's signature initiatives is the restoration of kelp forests along the Los Angeles coastline. Kelp forests are vital marine ecosystems that support a diverse array of marine life. TBF works to remove invasive species like sea urchins that threaten kelp forests and replant kelp to restore these underwater habitats.

Community Engagement and Education: The Bay Foundation runs educational programs and outreach efforts designed to engage the community in protecting and preserving the Santa Monica Bay. These programs include public workshops, volunteer opportunities, school-based initiatives, and citizen science projects that encourage people to participate in conservation efforts.

Sustainable Fisheries and Marine Life Protection: TBF promotes sustainable fishing practices and the protection of marine life through research, advocacy, and collaboration with local fishermen and conservation groups. They work to ensure that fishing practices in the Bay are sustainable and that marine life is protected for future generations.

Coastal Dune Restoration: The foundation is involved in restoring coastal dunes, which are important for protecting shorelines from erosion, providing habitat for wildlife, and acting as natural barriers against storm surges. TBF’s work includes removing invasive plants and replanting native species to restore these vital ecosystems.

Urban Greening and Stormwater Management: TBF collaborates with cities and communities to implement urban greening projects that reduce stormwater runoff, improve water quality, and enhance green spaces. These projects often involve installing rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable pavements that help filter pollutants before they reach the Bay.

Research and Monitoring: The foundation conducts scientific research and monitoring programs to assess the health of the Santa Monica Bay and its watershed. This data helps guide their restoration efforts, inform policy decisions, and track the long-term success of their initiatives.

Impact: The Bay Foundation plays a critical role in the ongoing effort to protect and restore the Santa Monica Bay and its watershed. Through habitat restoration, pollution reduction, and community engagement, TBF helps preserve the natural beauty and ecological health of the Bay, ensuring it remains a vibrant and sustainable environment for both wildlife and people. Their work not only benefits the local ecosystem but also enhances the quality of life for the millions of residents and visitors who enjoy the Bay and its surrounding areas.

For more information visit The Bay Foundation