20200916 GVC Agenda Packet
Agenda
City of Vernon
Regular Green Vernon Commission Meeting
Wednesday, September 16, 2020, 03:30 PM
City Hall, Council Chamber
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, California
Ron Daerr, Chair
Alan Franz, Vice Chair
Daniel Alley, Commissioner
Catherine Browne, Commissioner
Hector Morfin, Commissioner
Martin Perez, Commissioner
Vacant, Commissioner
THIS MEETING WILL BE CONDUCTED PURSUANT TO GOVERNOR NEWSOM'S
EXECUTIVE ORDER N-29-20.
The public is encouraged to view the meeting at http://www.cityofvernon.org/webinar-gvc or by
calling (408) 638-0968, Meeting ID 959-1655-2822#.
You may submit comments to PublicComment@ci.vernon.ca.us with the subject line “September
16, 2020 City of Vernon Green Vernon Commission Meeting Public Comment Item #__.”
Comments received prior to 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, September 16, 2020, will be read into the
record.
CALL TO ORDER
FLAG SALUTE
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
PUBLIC COMMENT
At this time the public is encouraged to address the Green Vernon Commission on any matter
that is within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Commission. The public will also be given a
chance to comment on matters which are on the posted agenda during Commission deliberation
on those specific matters.
Regular Green Vernon Commission Meeting Agenda Page 2 of 2
September 16, 2020
PRESENTATIONS
1. City Clerk
Selection of Chair and Vice Chair
Recommendation:
Select one member to serve as Chair and one member to serve as Vice Chair for the
term ending June 30, 2021.
CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed on the Consent Calendar are to be approved with one motion. Items may be
removed from the Consent Calendar by any member of the Commission. Those items removed
will be considered immediately after the Consent Calendar.
2. City Clerk
Approval of Minutes
Recommendation:
Approve the March 20, 2019 Regular Green Vernon Commission meeting minutes.
1. 20190320 Green Vernon Commission Minutes
NEW BUSINESS
3. Health and Environmental Control Department
Vernon Sustainability Action Plan
Recommendation:
A. Find that the proposed action is exempt from California Environmental Quality Act
(“CEQA”) review, in accordance with CEQA Guidelines §15308, because the plan is
being carried out by a regulatory agency to maintain, restore, or enhance the
environment, where the regulatory process includes procedures to protect the
environment; and
B. Provide direction and plan to update the Vernon Sustainability Action Plan.
1. City of Vernon Sustainability Action Plan
ORAL REPORTS
Brief reports, announcements, or directives to staff.
Next regular meeting: Wednesday, December 16, 2020, at 3:30 p.m.
ADJOURNMENT
I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California, that the
foregoing agenda was posted in accordance with the applicable legal requirements. Regular and
Adjourned Regular meeting agendas may be amended up to 72 hours in advance of the
meeting. Dated this 10th day of September, 2020.
By:
Sandra Dolson, Administrative Secretary
Green Vernon Commission Agenda Item Report
Agenda Item No. COV-298-2020
Submitted by: Sandra Dolson
Submitting Department: City Clerk
Meeting Date: September 16, 2020
SUBJECT
Selection of Chair and Vice Chair
Recommendation:
Select one member to serve as Chair and one member to serve as Vice Chair for the term ending June
30, 2021.
Background:
At its July 21, 2020 meeting, the City Council ratified the Mayor's selection for appointment of Hector
Morfin, Business Representative; Daniel Alley (term ending June 2024), Environmental Representavie;
Catherine Browne (term ending June 2022), Environmental Representatives; and Martin F. Perez, Labor
Representative, to the Green Vernon Commission.
Section 2.148(a) of the Vernon Municipal Code states that "the Commission shall have a Chairperson
and Vice Chairperson, who shall be from different appointing categories pursuant to section 2.146(a)."
For reference, the appointing category of each Commissioner is listed below:
Business Representative
1. Hector Morfin
2. Ron Daerr
3. Alan Franz
Environmental Representative
1. Daniel Alley
2. Catherine Browne
Labor Representative
1. Martin Perez
2. Vacant
Municipal Code Section 2.148(b) states that "the Commission members shall elect the Chairperson and
Vice Chairperson annually. No Commission member may serve as Chairperson for more than two (2)
consecutive years. The Chairperson shall preside over all Commission meetings and shall have the
power to appoint subcommittees and the presiding chairs of those subcommittees. The Vice
Chairperson shall, in the absence of the Chairperson, perform the duties of the Chairperson."
Commissioner Daerr was appointed as Chairperson on March 20, 2019. Due to timing of appointments
to the Commission, he is eligible to serve as Chairperson for another year if the Commission so desires.
It is appropriate for the Commission to select its Chair and Vice Chair for the coming year.
Fiscal Impact:
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
Attachments:
Green Vernon Commission Agenda Item Report
Agenda Item No. COV-299-2020
Submitted by: Sandra Dolson
Submitting Department: City Clerk
Meeting Date: September 16, 2020
SUBJECT
Approval of Minutes
Recommendation:
Approve the March 20, 2019 Regular Green Vernon Commission meeting minutes.
Background:
Staff has prepared and hereby submits the minutes for approval.
Fiscal Impact:
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
Attachments:
1. 20190320 Green Vernon Commission Minutes
MINUTES
GREEN VERNON COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2019
COUNCIL CHAMBER, 4305 SANTA FE AVENUE, VERNON
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Garcia called the meeting to order at 3:40 p.m.
FLAG SALUTE
Chair Garcia led the Flag Salute.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT:Hector Garcia, Chair
Ron Daerr, Commissioner
Alan Franz, Commissioner
Frane Sosic, Commissioner
ABSENT:Jim Andreoli Jr., Commissioner
CHANGES TO THE AGENDA
City Clerk Ayala stated that there were no changes to the agenda.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
PRESENTATIONS
1.Los Angeles River Path Project Presentation
By: Metro Representatives
Recommendation: A. No action required by the Commission. This is a presentation only.
Lauren Cencic, Senior Director, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation
Authority, conducted the Los Angeles River Path Project PowerPoint Presentation.
Regular Green Vernon Commission Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 3
March 20, 2019
ELECTIONS
2.Election of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson to Serve until the Next Annual
Election
Recommendation: A. Find that election of chairperson and vice chairperson does not
constitute a “project” pursuant to section 15378(b)(2) of the Guidelines to the California
Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), because it constitutes an administrative activity;
and even if the adoption of the proposed resolution did constitute a project, it would be
exempt from CEQA in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA
only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment;
B. Elect one of its members as Chairperson for a term to expire June 30, 2019; and
C. Elect one of its members as Vice Chairperson for a term to expire June 30, 2019.
City Clerk Ayala provided a brief overview of the Commission seat terms and election
procedures and led the nomination process.
Commissioner Franz nominated Hector Garcia as Chair for the Commission.
City Clerk Ayala explained that Chair Garcia could not be consideredto serve another term
as Chair of the Commission. Commissioner Franz retracted his nomination.
Commissioner Daerr nominated himself as Chair of the Commission.
MOTION
Commissioner Daerr moved and Chair Garcia seconded a motion to elect Commissioner
Daerr as Chair. The motion carried 4-0-1, Commissioner Andreoli Jr. absent.
MOTION
Commissioner Garcia moved and Chair Daerr seconded a motion to elect Commissioner
Franz as Vice Chair. The motion carried 4-0-1, Commissioner Andreoli Jr. absent.
MINUTES
3.Minutes of the Regular Green Vernon Commission Meeting Held June 21, 2017
Recommendation: A. Receive and File.
4.Minutes of the Joint Special Green Vernon Commission Meeting Held on May, 1,
2018
Recommendation: A. Receive and File.
MOTION
Chair Daerr moved and Commissioner Garcia seconded a motion to approve the Minutes
of the Regular Green Vernon Commission Meeting held June 21, 2017 and the Minutes of
the Joint Special Green Vernon Commission Meeting held on May 1, 2018. The motion
carried 4-0-1, Commissioner Andreoli Jr. absent.
Regular Green Vernon Commission Meeting Minutes Page 3 of 3
March 20, 2019
DISCUSSION ITEMS AND POSSIBLE DIRECTIVES TO STAFF
5.Senate Bill (SB) 1383: Short-Lived Climate Pollutants, Methane Emissions, Dairy and
Livestock, Organic Waste and Landfills
Recommendation: A. Find that the proposed action is exempt under the California
Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) because the discussion is a continuing
administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the
environment and, therefore, does not constitute a "project" as defined by CEQA Guidelines
Section 15378, and that even if such were a project, it would be exempt in accordance with
CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects
that may have a significant effect on the environment; and
B. Discuss SB 1383 and provide direction to staff regarding potential strategies that may
meet newly imposed regulatory requirements.
Health and Environmental Control Director Agyin reported on Senate Bill (SB) 1383:
Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCP), Methane Emissions, Dairy and Livestock and
Organic Waste and Landfills. He further explained that SB 1383 was new California
legislation designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by calendar year 2020.
In response to Chair Daerr, Health and Environmental Control Director Agyin discussed
landfills and impacts on the City.
A discussion ensued between Commissioners and staff on the impacts of SB 1383 on
existing businesses, potential opportunity for nonprofit organizations, and responsibilities
for agencies charged with enforcing the mandates of SB 1383.
ORAL REPORTS
Commissioner Garcia reported on Assembly Bill 617 - Community Air Initiatives and
explained the revolutionary law focused on improving air quality in public health and
environmental justice communities.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business, Chair Daerr adjourned the meeting at 4:35 p.m.
______________________
RON DAERR, Chair
ATTEST:
_________________________
LISA POPE, City Clerk
(Seal)
Green Vernon Commission Agenda Item Report
Agenda Item No. COV-319-2020
Submitted by: Lisa Pope
Submitting Department: Health and Environmental Control Department
Meeting Date: September 16, 2020
SUBJECT
Vernon Sustainability Action Plan
Recommendation:
A. Find that the proposed action is exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) review, in
accordance with CEQA Guidelines §15308, because the plan is being carried out by a regulatory
agency to maintain, restore, or enhance the environment, where the regulatory process includes
procedures to protect the environment; and
B. Provide direction and plan to update the Vernon Sustainability Action Plan.
Background:
Vernon Municipal Code Section 2.149(a) indicates the Green Vernon Commission shall periodically
review the Sustainability Action Plan "which should, among other things, (1) outline goals for the City’s
sustainability infrastructure, (2) describe the regulatory framework and industry standard-setting bodies
that will govern the City’s infrastructure, (3) identify specific areas in which the City can become more
sustainable and energy efficient, and (4) identify types of “green” businesses the City should attract.
In 2011, the City of Vernon presented its first Sustainability Action Plan (Attachment 1). On April 25,
2012, the Sustainability Development and Energy Efficiency Commission (renamed Green Vernon
Commission on June 3, 2014 by Ordinance No. 1222), approved the proposed Sustainability Action
Plan. The City Council approved and adopted the Plan on May 15, 2012.
Staff requests the Green Vernon Commission discuss the 2011 Plan and recommend means of updating
the plan.
Fiscal Impact:
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
Attachments:
1. City of Vernon Sustainability Action Plan
PREPARED BYCITY OF VERNONHEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL DEPARTMENTWINTER 2011vernonsustainability action planCity of Vernon
Health and Environmental Control Department Winter 2011The City of Vernon is very pleased to present its fi rst Sustainability Action Plan. For generations, the City of Vernon has supported environmental stewardship and innovation. This Plan is a continuation of Vernon’s long-standing commitment to implement cleaner, greener, and more sustainable policies. We have traditionally encouraged Vernon businesses to adopt aggressive waste diversion and recycling strategies. In addition, we have incorporated these strategies into our own municipal operations. Vernon has also consistently been an early adopter of energy effi ciency and resource conservation policies and practices. These actions have included innovative approaches to localenergy generation and consumption, the purchase of early versions of electric hybrid vehicles for City employee transportation, and the provision of sustainability technical assistance to Vernon businesses.Today, we must step forward to a greater level to help solve the climate and energy crises and en-hance the protection of our environment. It is vital that we take steps now to preserve and protect our environment, economy and community for future generations. We feel confi dent that we can address concerns about water scarcity, energy costs, environmental degradation, climate change and economic challenges by using our local ingenuity, entrepreneurship, and creative talents. While local government is uniquely positioned to lead on this issue, a sustainable future will require investment, innovation and effi ciency improvement at every level of government as well as the com-mitment and participation of the public. In addition, because of the industrial composition of Vernon, we are asking our business community to work with the City to make positive changes and to ensure that sustainability is embedded into our behavior and culture. We will achieve our greatest success in these areas by working together. While the challenges ahead are great, we can control our own destiny by taking action now to ensure a livable and prosperous community for today, and for future generations. We should also encour-age change by fi nding ways to reward good behavior and lead by example. I encourage you to read this Plan and spread the word.Respectfully,Lewis J. PozzebonDirector / Health Offi cer
1.1 TABLE OF CONTENTS1. Introduction 1 Heritage of Effi ciency 1 History of Environmental Protection and Resource Conservation 1 The Challenge of Global Climate Change 7 Sustainability Infrastructure 10 Purpose of the Sustainability Action Plan 12 The Role of the Health and Environmental Control Department 13 2. Regulatory Framework and Sustainability Organizations 14California’s Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32) 14 Local Government Operations Protocol (LGOP) 14 The AB 32 Scoping Plan 16 ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability 17 California Product Stewardship Council 17 3. Emissions Inventory and Forecast 18 How Carbon Emissions are Measured and Reported 18 Sources and Scopes of GHG Emissions 19 Emissions Inventory: Past, Present, and Future 204. Overview of Major Goal Areas 24 Energy Effi ciency 24 Transportation and Land Use 26 Water Protection and Conservation 28 Waste Resources Management 30 5. Summary of Emission Reduction Targets 34 Emission Reduction Targets 35 6. Technical Assistance to Vernon Businesses 367. Green Buildings 398. Green Economic Development 43nn
1efficiencyEffi ciency has always been the essence of Vernon. The City was founded on the idea that an ‘industrial city’ would thrive adjacent to major railroad lines. Since its beginning, Vernon’s main goal has been to provide a place where businesses could compete and prosper by providing locally administered direct and effi cient municipal services to industrial customers.In the 1930s, this quest for effi ciency led Vernon to build a power plant and establish its own electric utility. As a result, energy-intensive fi rms such as Alcoa, Bethlehem Steel, Farmer John and Owens-Illinois fl ocked to the City. Today, Vernon businesses continue to enjoy utility rates for electricity that are signifi cantly lower than their peers in neighboring cities, and water rates that are among the lowest in Southern California. More recently, the City has installed fi ber optic cable to enable its businesses to access the internet at higher speeds for lower rates. This ongoing evolution of effi ciency is Vernon’s trademark.History of Environmental Protection and Resource ConservationIn addition to this heritage of effi ciency, Vernon has a long history of what is today known as ‘environmental sustainability.’ The term ‘environmental sustainability’ simply means:Practices that meet the needs of today’s society while conserving vital natural resources for the benefi t of future generations.Environmentally sustainable practices have to be not only environmentally sound, but also make economic sense and also address social and community impacts. A true “sustain-able” infrastructure will maintain itself when all three factors, environment, economics, and community/social coexist in balance.As an industrial city, Vernon may not evoke the traditional idyllic images of ‘sustainability’ such as alabaster windmills perched atop rolling green hills. Nonetheless, Vernon has long been a place where the protection of the environment and the conservation of natural resources have quietly been integral components of its success.Vernon’s history of environmental stewardship is refl ected in the City’s longtime emphasis on environmental health, as well as its long-standing water and energy conservation programs. Moreover, the widespread diversion and re-use of recyclable materials among Vernon businesses is further evi-dence of Vernon’s history of sustainable operating practices. SOCIALECONOM ICEQUITABLEBEARABLEVIABLEENVIRONMENTDYK?Testing water pumps to maintain maximum efficiency A transportation hub Malburg Generating Station (MGS)Diesel generators at the Vernon Power Plant built in the 1930sheritage of1INTRODUCTIONDid you know?...every year, the City tests every one of its well and booster pump motors to ensure that they are operating efficiently.
23DYK?Did you know...due to retrofitting inefficient power equipment and installing low-energy lighting, Vernon businesses save about 2.5 million kilowatt hours of electricity each year, enough energy to power 400 homes for a year?Energy efficient lighting in City facilitiesEmphasis on Environmental HealthOne of the characteristics that makes Vernon unique is that it is one of only a handful of cities in California with its own environmental health department. Established in 1907, the original goal of the Vernon Health & Environmental Control Department was to correct unsanitary conditions and promote industrial hygiene. Today, the department’s mission is to protect the environment, and safeguard the health and well-being of Vernon’s residents, workers, visitors, and neighboring communities.In pursuit of its mission, the Vernon Health & Environmental Control Department oversees several long-established and intensive programs to assist Vernon businesses to conserve resources, minimize waste, and protect the environment. These programs include hazard-ous materials management, storage tank monitoring, water quality testing, waste reduc-tion and recycling, and storm water pollution prevention. This emphasis on tightly focused environmental controls is one of Vernon’s hallmarks, and a refl ection of its history of sus-tainability.Water and Energy ConservationThis history is also refl ected in the City’s conservation practices. Since 1991, when the City adopted its fi rst water conservation program, the City’s Community Services Department has imple-mented several water saving measures. These have included: providing businesses with water audits and leak detection ser-vice; requiring new buildings to install water-saving fi xtures; and imposing limits on landscape watering. In recent years, the City has installed 10,000 feet of pipe to deliver reclaimed water to the Malburg Generating Station. In a similar way, the City’s Light & Power Department offers grants and discounted electric rates to Vernon businesses that install energy-effi cient equipment. The goal of this program is to promote long-term energy effi ciency. The Light & Power De-partment provides customers with fi nancial incentives to apply state-of-the-art technologies and install energy saving devices that might otherwise be cost-prohibitive. Reclaimed water used in the cooling system of the Malburg Generating StationHealth and Environmental Control Department staff: (l to r) David LeDuff, Liz Zepeda, Leonard Grossberg, Linda Smith, Linda Johnson, Lewis Pozzebon, Jerrick Torres, Lyndon Ong Yiu (not pictured, Marisol Trujillo) Did you know?...that Vernon has installed screens on stormwater catch basins in the City to capture runoff debris before it runs into the LA River?DYK?Stormwater catch basin screen
Rendering: The Epitome of SustainabilityRendering is one of the most environmen-tally sustainable industrial processes in ex-istence today, and Vernon is home to several rendering companies. Rendering is essen-tially the recycling of waste animal byprod-ucts into valuable commodities for many dif-ferent industries.The rendering firms in Vernon receive used cooking oils and animal by-products from sources within Vernon and from throughout Southern California, these sources include meat processors, restaurants, and super-market butcher shops. Through a variety of processes, these animal byproducts are heated (or ‘cooked’) and reduced into useful materials such as bone meal, lard and tal-low. These endproducts are used as raw ma-terials to produce a variety of products such as animal feed, fertilizers and soaps.The rendering facilities in Vernon convert millions of pounds of waste food and animal by-products each week into key agricultural feed components for poultry, pork and aqua-culture producers, both here in the United States and also in Asia, Europe, and South America.If these waste animal byproducts were land-filled rather than rendered, not only would they shorten the life of landfills, but they would quickly decompose into methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Therefore, by re-turning waste materials to the economic mainstream as useful products, the ren-dering process extends the life of landfills, and reduces the emission of heat-trapping greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. As a result, the rendering companies in Vernon play a key role in the City’s sustainability in-frastructure.45Re-use of Recyclable MaterialsLong before the State began requiring cities to implement waste reduction and recycling programs, dozens of businesses in Vernon were already processing waste materials and returning them to the economic mainstream in the form of useful products. For decades, Vernon has been home to major rendering, glass-recycling and paper-recycling compa-nies. Moreover, every week in Vernon, several food processing plants ship hundreds of tons of what would otherwise be discarded food scraps to farms where it is used as animal feed. Additionally, there are a large number of fi rms in Vernon that recycle everything from plastic milk containers to lead batteries to discarded clothing. Although these recycling businesses may not evoke the traditional idyllic image of sustainability, they truly represent its essence. And they have long been a central thread in the fabric of Vernon. This conservation of resources has reduced the emission of greenhouse gas. Every kilowatt hour of electricity conserved by Vernon businesses reduces the need to combust fossil fuels, thereby reducing the amount of greenhouse gas that would have otherwise been released into the atmosphere. Every gallon of water saved reduces the need to generate the energy needed to pump the water, and every ton of waste recycled saves the energy that would have been needed to produce virgin materials. This reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by Vernon businesses is an essential component of ‘sustainability,’ and has served to benefi t future generations by offsetting the impact of global climate change.re-use of recyclablere-use of recyclablematerialsEnd product from rendering process is raw material for new productsRecycled cardboard and plastic recovered at the Puente Hills material recovery facilityRecycled cardboardRecycled plastic bottles used as filler for pillows at Hollander Home Fashions
76The Challenge of Global Climate ChangeThe earth’s climate has alternated several times over its life span from periods of warmth to ice ages. When the Industrial Revolution began in the 18th century, humans started contributing to changes in the earth’s climate at an ever increasing rate. In the last 200 years, the consumption of fossil fuels (oil and gas), the burning of solid waste, deforestation and other activities have created signifi cant increases in concentrations of heat-trapping greenhouse gases in our atmosphere.Greenhouse gases get their name because they trap heat in, like the glass of a greenhouse, preventing it from escaping into space, similar to an agricultural greenhouse. The green-house gases in our atmosphere are necessary; they keep the earth’s surface warm, allow-ing for life. The concentrations of greenhouse gases, however, are continuing to increase in the earth’s atmosphere and, consequently, the earth’s temperature has continued to increase.According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the average surface temperature of the earth has increased approximately 1.2º to 1.4ºF since 1910. The eight hottest years on record (since 1850) have been since 1998, with the hottest year being 2005. A signifi cant amount of the increased heat over the past few decades can be attributed to a rise in greenhouse gas emissions from human activities.Climate models estimate the earth’s average surface temperature could rise by 3.2º to 7.2ºF above 1990 levels by the end of this century if the greenhouse gases in our atmo-sphere continue to increase. Scientists understand that human activities are changing the greenhouse gas composition of the atmosphere, which is changing the earth’s climate. Scientifi c observations of climate change to the earth include: shrinking glaciers, rising sea levels, permafrost thawing, increased growing seasons, trees blooming earlier, and a change in the range and distribution of plants and animals.One of the great threats to California from global warming is the potential reduction in the Sierra snowpack. The Sierra snowpack accounts for approximately half the surface water stored in the State. Higher temperatures would diminish snowfall and cause the snow that does fall to melt earlier. This would reduce the amount of water stored in the Sierra snow-pack. Some scientists project that the effects of global warming could lead to a reduction in the Sierra snowpack by as much as 30 to 70 per cent. As a result, global warming may cause a reduction in the supply of an already scarce resource for future generations of Californians. Local governments need to do their part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by accept-ing responsibility and mitigating climate change at the local level. They can accomplish this by reducing energy and water consumption in government facilities, reducing fuel con-sumption of government vehicles and managing waste and recyclables more effi ciently. As the effects of climate change become more severe, local government policies will become more important in reducing the impact of global climate change.
98Owens-IllinoisOwens-Illinois, Inc. (O-I) is the leading glass container manufacturer in North America and the leading global end user of recycled glass containers. Vernon has been home to Owens-Illinois, Inc.’s southern California plant since 1929. The company uses recycled/crushed post-consumer glass (called cullet) in its manufacturing process. As a result, glass recycling is an essential element of the manufacturing chain at its glass plants.Glass is endlessly and 100% recyclable. Using recycled glass to manufacture new glass containers provides several positive environmental benefits. In addition to avoid-ing landfill disposal, glass recycling sig-nificantly reduces glass packaging’s carbon footprint. Every 1 kg (2.2 pounds) of recycled glass used in the manufacturing of new bottles replaces 1.2 Kg (2.6 pounds) of virgin raw materials that would otherwise need to be extracted. Every 10 percent of recycled glass or cullet used in production results in an approximate 5 percent reduction in car-bon emissions and energy savings of about 3 percent. Each day, O-I’s Vernon plant uses approximately 420 tons of recycled glass from sources in California.One of O-I’s sustainability goals is to increasecullet use globally to 60 percent of the batch by 2017 from a baseline of 36 percent in 2010. The company’s sustainability goals not only benefit the environment, but are important to the financial success of the company. O-I and others in the glass industry stand ready to partner with states and municipalities to en-sure that recycled glass can be fully utilized. O-I can use more than 90 percent of recycled glass in its furnace batches and now uses as much as 70 percent in some of its North American furnaces. It is paramount that O-I obtain quality post-consumer glass, so it can do its part to improve air quality, reduce the need for virgin raw materials and meet its sustainability goals.glass endlessly and 100% Owens-Illinois has been in Vernon since 1929Finished glass containersGlass culletMolten glass is created at 2,850 degrees FahrenheitMolten glass being cut into ‘gobs’Containers are reheated and gradually cooled to relieve stress in the glassrecyclable
1011Diesel generators in the Vernon Power PlantRail line near old water tower at Pabco PaperTo continue its history of resource conservation, and to address the threat of global climate change, the City of Vernon has resolved to develop a sustainability infrastructure. The purpose for this infrastructure is to further reduce the City’s carbon footprint, and to continue to drive Vernon’s economic growth.To develop this infrastructure, the City is committed to provide the leadership and resources to establish a policy framework with the following objectives:• Lead by example. The City itself will continue to implement and maintain sustainable operating methods to further reduce its own carbon footprint. The City will incorporate concepts of sustainability into its planning and governing processes. The City will strive to be an example and an incubator of sustainable practices.• Measure emissions. The City will develop tools and use industry-standard environmental metrics to measure the amount of greenhouse gas emissions over which it has operational control.• Set goals. The City will forecast its amount of future greenhouse gas emissions under a ‘business as usual’ scenario and then set quantifi able goals to achieve signifi cant reductions in the forecasted amount of greenhouse gas emissions.• Provide technical support. The City will provide management tools and guidance to Vernon businesses to assist them in conserving resources, and reducing their carbon footprint. • Share information. The City will create a continuing forum among its businesses to address sustainability issues, solutions and opportunities. The City will encourage its businesses to serve as environmental mentors to other businesses. • Monitor progress. The City will periodically measure and evaluate its progress. The City will build on its accomplishments, and learn from its mistakes.• Recognize success. The City will designate businesses that meet certain criteria as ‘green businesses.’ The City may also occasionally identify some Vernon businesses with exemplary sustainable practices for special recognition.• Pioneer ‘Best Management Practices.’ The City of Vernon will work with its businesses and various universities and environmental groups to develop innovative approaches to resource conservation. • Recruit green business. The City will reach out and encourage green companies (e.g., businesses that operate in an environmentally sustainable manner) to move into the City. sustainability
121312The Role of the Health and Environmental Control Department The Health & Environmental Control Department will provide leadership in administer-ing the Sustainability Action Plan and maintaining the City’s sustainable infrastructure. It will communicate the City’s sustainability goals, prioritize and direct targeted activities, monitor results, and periodically update the plan. The Health & Environmental Control Department will develop policies and innovative programs, and participate in outreach and education to the City’s businesses. The Health & Environmental Control Department will coordinate with City administration and other departments to appropriate the resources needed to maintain the City’s sustainability infrastructure, and to incorporate sustainable goals, policies, ordinances and performance criteria into the City’s General Plan, budget-ing, purchasing, and reporting. The chart below shows the role of the Health & Environ-mental Control Department in maintaining the City’s environmental infrastructure.Chart 1 – Sustainability Program Management Organization Purpose of Sustainability Action PlanThis Sustainability Action Plan is the fi rst edition of what is intended to be a living document that will guide the City in developing and maintaining its sustainable infrastructure. Accordingly, the purpose of this Plan is to:• Recount Vernon’s history of effi ciency and resource conservation.• Describe the challenge of global climate change.• Outline the goals of the City’s sustainability infrastructure.• Describe the regulatory framework and industry standard-setting bodies that will govern the City’s infrastructure.• Establish a baseline greenhouse gas inventory.• Forecast a future greenhouse gas inventory under a ‘business as usual’ scenario.• Identify specifi c areas in which the City can become more effi cient and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.• Set measurable and achievable greenhouse gas reduction targets. • Highlight the environmental outreach and technical assistance the City offers to its businesses.• Identify the types of green businesses the City desires to recruit. Mayor &City CouncilCityAdministratorCommunityServices & WaterDepartmentRisk ManagementFireDepartmentPoliceDepartmentOffi ce of theCity ClerkOffi ce of theCity AttorneyPersonnelLight & PowerDepartmentGas DivisionHealth & EnvironmentalControl Department
2REGULATORY FRAMEWORK & SUSTAINABILITY ORGANIZATIONS1415California Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32)Vernon’s sustainable infrastructure must be incorporated within the context of the frame-work of California’s environmental regulations and industry standards. In 2006, the State of California passed into law the Global Warming Solutions Act, also known as AB 32. This new law established the State of California as a leader in climate change policy initiatives. A primary component of AB 32 is the State’s goal to reduce greenhouse emissions by 15% by the year 2020. (Thereby reaching 1990 greenhouse gas emission levels), and to further reduce greenhouse emissions by 2050 to bring the State 80% below the 1990 levels. By requiring in law a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, California has set the stage for its transition to a sustainable, clean-energy future.The AB 32 Scoping PlanTo achieve this goal, AB 32 required the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to developa Scoping Plan to establish greenhouse gas emission reduction measures for all sectors of the economy. The Scoping Plan was adopted by the CARB in December 2008, and consists of a comprehensive array of eighteen emission reduction measures.Local governments are viewed as essential partners with the State in implementing the measures in the Scoping Plan and ensuring progress towards the State’s greenhouse gas reductions goals. Of the eighteen measures identifi ed in the Scoping Plan, several can be advanced through local government actions. Table 1 on the following page lists the green-house gas reduction measures in the Scoping Plan and identifi es those that are most ap-plicable to local governments.Local Government Operations Protocol (LGOP)In addition to the Scoping Plan, the California Air Resources Board also publishes the Lo-cal Government Operations Protocol (LGOP), which is a set of standard guidelines to assist local governments in quantifying and reporting their greenhouse gas emissions. The LGOP sets forth the organizational structure, measurement methodology and emission factors used by local governments to develop their greenhouse gas inventories. A jurisdiction’s greenhouse gas inventory serves as the basis for measuring its progress in reducing emis-sions. The CARB developed the LGOP in partnership with ICLEI- Local Governments for Sustainability. AB32californiaglobal warming solutions actLandfills are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. View of the San Gabriel Valley from the Puente Hills landfill in WhittierDid you know...that Vernon has retrofitted all traffic signals in the City with low-energy Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) resulting in a 10% reduction in energy consumption for its traffic control system?Did you know...that each year Vernon businesses divert approximately 60 percent of all the waste generated in the City? In the last ten years, this has prevented over 1.5 million tons of waste from being buried in local landfills. DYK?
1716ICLEI – Local Governments for SustainabilityICLEI is an international association of local governments committed to advancing deep reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and achieving tangible improvements in local sus-tainability. ICLEI acts as a resource-sharing network to its member agencies. Local gov-ernments typically join ICLEI to access its energy and greenhouse gas accounting software, tools, technical guidance, training, and peer networking. The City of Vernon has been a member of ICLEI since April 2010.California Product Stewardship CouncilThe California Product Stewardship Council (CPSC) is a coalition of local governments and other industry organizations that are committed to driving improvements in product design that promote environmental sustainability. The mission of the CPSC is to shift California’s product waste management system from one focused on government funded and rate-payer fi nanced waste diversion to one that relies on producer responsibility. Vernon’s participation in ICLEI and the CPSC will help California move toward a more sus-tainable future within the state’s regulatory framework.Table 1 – AB 32 Scoping Plan– Emission Reduction MeasuresEMISSIONS REDUCTIONMEASUREDESCRIPTION123457891012131415161718116Cap-and-Trade ProgramLight-Duty Vehicle StandardsEnergy Effi ciencyRenewable Portfolio StandardLow Carbon Fuel StandardVehicle Effi ciency MeasuresGoods MovementMillion Solar Roofs ProgramMedium/Heavy-Duty VehiclesHigh Speed RailGreen Building StrategyHigh Global Warming Potential GasesRecycling and WasteSustainable ForestsWaterAgricultureIndustrial EmissionsRegional Transportation TargetsMarket-based mechanism to limit emissions. Align clean-fuel technology programs with long-term climate change goals. Maximize energy effi ciency efforts including new technologies, and new policy and implementation mechanisms.Achieve 33 percent renewable energy mix statewide.Develop and adopt the Low Carbon Fuel Standard.Implement light-duty vehicle effi ciency measures.Implement adopted regulations for the use of shore power for ships at berth. Improve effi ciency in goods movement activities.Install 3,000 MW of solar-electric capacity under California’s existing solar programs.Adopt medium and heavy-duty vehicle effi ciency measures.Support implementation of a high speed rail system.Expand the use of green building practices to reduce the carbon footprint of the City’s new and existing inventory of buildings.Adopt measures to reduce high global warming potential gases. Reduce methane emissions at landfi lls. Increase waste diversion, composting, and commercial recycling. Move toward zero-wastePreserve forest sequestration and encourage the use of forest biomass for sustainable energy generation.Continue effi ciency programs and use cleaner energy sources to move and treat water.Encourage investment in manure digesters. Assess large industrial sources to determine whether individual sources within a facility can cost-effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Develop regional greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets for passenger vehicles. APPLIES TOLOCAL GOVERNMENT
18193EMISSIONS INVENTORY & FORECASTSCOPE 1DIRECTCO2SF6CH4N4O HCFs PFCsFUEL COMBUSTIONCOMPANY OWNED VEHICLESSCOPE 3INDIRECTEMPLOYEEBUSINESS TRAVELOUTSOURCED ACTIVITIESWASTEDISPOSALPRODUCT USECONTRACTOROWNED VEHICLESPRODUCTION OF PURCHASED MATERIALSSCOPE 2INDIRECTPURCHASED ELECTRICITY FOROWN USEmeasuring+forecastingAn important benchmark of a city’s progress toward becoming more sustainable is its level of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Local governments gain an understanding of their progress by establishing a baseline measurement of greenhouse emissions, projecting future emissions under a ‘business as usual’ scenario, and establishing greenhouse gas reduction targets based on that projection.How Carbon Emissions are Measured and Reported Global Warming Potential and Carbon EquivalentsThere are six different greenhouse gases that cause global warming. Each greenhouse gas has a different degree of ability to trap heat in the atmosphere. This heat-trapping abil-ity is known as ‘global warming potential’ or ‘GWP.’ The GWP of each type of greenhouse gas is ranked in relation to the heat-trapping ability of one molecule of carbon dioxide (CO2), which has a GWP equal to 1. For example, one molecule of methane (CH4) has 23 times the heat-trapping ability of one molecule of carbon dioxide. Therefore, methane has a GWP equal to 23.Greenhouse gases are measured by weight in terms of metric tons of carbon dioxide equiv-alents. In measuring the total metric tons of carbon emissions, all the various types of greenhouse gases are converted into an equivalent number of metric tons of carbon diox-ide. As a result, the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions reported in a greenhouse gas inventory is expressed in terms of metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (or ‘CO2 E’) that are emitted during one year.Reported Based on GHG Emission ‘Scopes’Greenhouse gas accounting systems organize emissions into three ‘scopes’ according to the source of the emissions. These scopes are:Scope 1 - Direct GHG emissions from sources that are controlled by the City.Scope 2 - Indirect GHG emissions associated with the City’s consumption of purchased or acquired electricity, steam, heating, or cooling.Scope 3 - Other indirect emissions not covered in Scope 2.The purpose for organizing emissions into these scopes is to avoid double counting among jurisdictions. For example, the Scope 2 emissions from electricity use reported by a local government may also be reported as Scope 1 emissions from an electric utility that serves a regional area. Chart 2 illustrates the types of emissions associated with each of the three different scopes.Table 2 – Description of Greenhouse Gases by Source and ScopeSCOPE 1 - Direct SCOPE 2 - Indirect SCOPE 3 - Other IndirectDIESEL GENERATORS - OLDON-ROAD VEHICLE FLEETOFF-ROAD VEHICLE FLEETSTORAGE TANKS/ AIR CONDITIONINGSTREET LIGHTS & TRAFFIC SIGNALSWATER DELIVERING FACILITIESCITY HALLFOUR FIRE STATIONSOLD POWER PLANTStationary Combustion of Diesel FuelVehicle EmissionsVehicle Emissions Fugitive Emissions Electricity UsageWater Consumption Electricity UsageWater Consumption Electricity UsageWater Consumption Electricity UsageWater Consumption Stationary Combustion of Natural GasStationary Combustion of Natural GasStationary Combustion of Natural GasSOURCEWaste Generation/DiversionWaste Generation/DiversionWaste Generation/DiversionemissionsTable 2 below groups the sources of greenhouse gas emissions from Vernon, and describes the emissions from each source according to its scope.Chart 2 – Greenhouse Gas Inventory Scopes
2021Emissions Inventory: Past, Present, and FutureTable 3 shows the greenhouse gases, by ‘scope,’ from City facilities for 2008 and 2010, as well as the greenhouse gases projected to occur in 2020 under a ‘business as usual’ scenario. The greenhouse gases in Table 3 are shown graphically in detail on the following page in Chart 3.Table 3 shows that there were approximately 5,258 and 4,926 metric tons of carbon equiva-lents emitted by City facilities in 2008 and 2010, respectively. Table 3 also shows that the overwhelming majority of the City’s greenhouse gas emissions result from the consump-tion of purchased electricity. Of the total amount of electricity used by the City, the largest portion is used to pump water to City buildings and facilities. The next largest portion is the power used in City buildings and facilities, followed by the power used to operate the City’s traffi c signals and street lights. Because these are the largest sources of the City’s greenhouse gas emissions, they are also the source for the greatest amount of potential reductions. The greenhouse gas emission inventory in Table 3 does not refl ect any emissions resulting from the gen-eration of solid waste by the City. This is because the City’s current waste management practices result in a net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions over time. This net reduction occurs over the life cycle of the solid waste generated by the City; from the time it is gener-ated to when the waste is either diverted, or disposed in a landfi ll. The end of the solid waste life cycle occurs when the organic portion of the waste turns to meth-ane and is sequestered within the landfi ll, or is com-busted by the landfi ll’s fl aring or gas-to-energy system. Because this net reduction in emissions occurs over a period that is longer than one year, it is not appropriate to include it in the City’s greenhouse gas inventory.Chart 3 shows a comparison of greenhouse gas emis-sions for three separate years: Base Year 2008, Cur-rent Year 2010, and Business as Usual Year 2020. To determine the 2008 and 2010 emissions, data was collected from fi eld surveys, on-site audits, and utility records. The results of the collected data showed that the sustainable and green practices implemented by the City between 2008 and 2010, together with the long established culture of sustainability and operational effi ciency, contributed signifi cantly to the reduction of the City’s overall greenhouse emissions during the two year period.Business as Usual Projection2008 2010 2020GHG metric tons GHG metric tons GHG metric tons Greenhouse Gas Categories CO2 equivalent CO2 equivalent CO2 equivalent Scope 1: Direct Emissions Stationary combustion (on-site petroleum/gasoline generators) 4.31 6.99 6.99 Stationary natural gas (facilities) 104.87 118.81 118.81 Stationary natural gas (gas turbines) 261.09 129.45 129.45 On-road vehicles (fl eet trucks, fl eet cars) 525.62 499.65 496.96 Off-road vehicles (forklift, construction equipment) 16.71 20.21 20.21 Fugitive emissions (refrigeration, air conditioning, fi re suppression) 115.77 118.95 118.95 Scope 1 Subtotal 1,028.37 894.06 891.37 Scope 2: Indirect Emissions - Purchased Electricity Street light and traffi c signals 655.22 612.68 612.68 Water delivering facilities 2,512.84 2,371.74 2,229.44 Other buildings and facilities 954.80 974.86 916.37 Scope 2 Subtotal 4,122.85 3,959.28 3,758.49 Scope 3: Other Emissions - Electricity Used to Treat/Distribute Water Street light and traffi c signals 2.01 0.93 0.93 Water delivering facilities 15.23 18.69 18.69 Other buildings and facilities 89.85 52.77 52.77 Scope 3 Other Emissions Subtotal 107.09 72.39 72.39 Total GHG Emission from Energy Usage (Scopes 1, 2, 3) 5,258.31 4,925.73 4,722.25 Table 3 – Greenhouse Gas InventoryMalburg Generating StationA reliable source of local power to Vernon businesses 24 hours a day
2223 Chart 3 – Comparison of GHG Emissions for 2008, 2010 and 2020 Business as Usual Examples of the green practices implemented by the City include:• The installation of LED lights for all of the City’s traffi c signals;• The replacement of old City vehicles with hybrid vehicles;• The installation of energy effi cient lighting, HVAC systems, and low-fl ow water fi xtures;• The installation of remote electric meter reading equipment (which replaces site-to-site fi eld meter reading); and,• The incorporation of amendments to the Water Conservation Ordinance requiring mandatory water usage restrictions. To provide a reasonable projection for the “Business as Usual” 2020 emissions, economic trends and indicators were considered as well as in-formation from in-depth interviews conducted with key City staff members. The information was used to project future trends under the assumption that the City will continue its existing sustainable practices and maintain its policy of “continued improvement”. The information provided by City staff indicated that the City intends to continue the existing energy conservation, cost reduction, and other related sustainability programs. The results of this in-depth effort to project the 2020 “Business as Usual” emissions refl ect a modest continual decrease from 2010 levels.reducing GHGVernon is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air qualityThe City operates several energy-saving hybrid vehicles3,0002,5002,0001,5001,0005000METRIC TONS CO2 EQUIVALENTDETAILED BY SCOPECity of Vernon Government Buildings/FacilitiesComparison of Greenhouse Gas Emisssions for 2008, 2010 & 2020 Business as UsualMetric Tons C02 Equivalent by Scope (Excluding Waste)1-Natural Gas, Petro, Generators, Fugitive2-Electricity-Streetlights/Traffi c Signals2-Electricity-Water DeliveryFacilities2-Electricity-OtherBuildings/Facilities3-Water (Electricity used to Treat/Distribute Water)1-Vehicles486374 374542520 517655613 6132,5132,3722,22995597591610772 722020-As Usual2008 2010
2425TARGETTable 4 – Energy Effi ciency Action PlanACTION TIMEFRAMEReduce GHG emissions generated from City operations 15% by 2020.Utilize at least 33% renewable power in City facilities by 2020.Continue to encourage the installa-tion of renewable power sources by the City’s businesses. Continue to install renewable power sources for City facilities.Continue to minimize the energy used to pump water to the City’s water utility customers. Minimize the ‘heat island effect.’By 2020, assist at least 100 businesses to establish their GHG baseline and reduce GHG emissions generated from their business operations.Provide technical business assistance and target specifi c industries.Enhance community awareness.Enhance staff awareness.As they are refurbished, all City buildings will be retrofi tted to meet green building energy standards.Install energy management devices on City buildings that reduce the power required to operate equipment and shift equipment usage to off-peak hours. Replace incandescent lamps with compact fl uorescent lamps in City buildings and facilities.Implement accounting system and continue annual quantifi cation and systematic reduction of greenhouse gas emissions generated by City operations and services.Procure or develop renewable sources of energy for use by the City. Develop a remote wind energy project to generate renewable power. Continue to offer Vernon businesses monetary incentives to fi nance eligible solar projects.Phase in the use of solar-powered area and street lightingEvaluate pumping effi ciency of water well and booster pumps, and replace failed water pump motors with high-effi ciency motors. Encourage the installation of ‘cool roofs’ and ‘green walls.’Continue to provide sustainability technical assistance to local businesses.Encourage the refrigeration industry to use more environment-friendly refrigerants and participate in the EPA’s Greenchill program.Provide sustainable web-based resources, workshops, and events to local businesses.Provide staff with training and educational materials on energy effi ciency. OngoingLongOngoingNear to MediumOngoingOngoingOngoingOngoingOngoingOngoingOngoingOngoingOngoingTo achieve its targeted reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, the City has set goals and identifi ed several actions to move the City toward those goals. These goals and actions are organized into four categories: Energy Effi ciency, Water Conservation, Transportation and Land Use, and Waste Resources Management.Energy Effi ciency Goals:• Meet or exceed the goals of AB 32.• Optimize energy effi ciency.• Purchase one-third of electricity from renewable sources by 2020.• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from City operations and services, and support local business community, vendors and contractors to do the same.• Enhance City staff and the business community’s awareness of the relationship between energy conservation and climate change.• Work with community partners, public agencies to evaluate and/or develop new technologies and infrastructure to reduce GHG emissions.Using natural light and natural ventilation to save energy4OVERVIEW OF MAJOR GOAL AREASLongenergy
Transportation and Land UseGoals:• Reduce traffi c congestion.• Decrease environmental impact and GHG emissions generated from transportation activities. Transportation is one of the largest source of greenhouse gas emissionsThe City encourages employees to rideshareParking shelter also produces solar power2627Table 5 - Transportation and Land Use Action PlanTARGET ACTION TIMEFRAMEReduce vehicle trips by the City’s workforce 5% by 2020.Reduce emissions from private vehicles used by City staff 5% by 2020.Reduce emissions from City-operated vehicles 25% by 2020. Promote Rideshare programs among the City’s employees.Encourage the use of van pools and car pool programs and public transit passes among the City’s employees.Provide preferential parking spaces for vanpool /carpool vehicles, and bicycles for City staff.Consider the development of an incentive-fi nancing program for employees that purchase hybrid or clean fuel, low emission vehicles.As existing non-emergency fl eet vehicles come to the end of their useful lives, replace them with clean-fuel, low-emission vehicles. Evaluate new technologies and fuels to reduce carbon emissions.Evaluate, on a case-by-case basis, to promote and test new technologies and fuel options such as using CNG, bio-fuel, propane, electric plug-in and hydrogen cell vehicles.Conduct fl eet size and utilization study for City fl eet vehicles. Pursue viable grant funding opportunities for purchasing alternative fuel vehicles, install-ing advanced emission control devices for City owned/operated fl eet vehicles.Install a CNG fi lling station, convert City vehicles to CNG and use City-provided natural gas to power City vehicles.ShortShortOngoingOngoingOngoingOngoingMedium to LongShortShortOngoing+ land usetransportationEvery day, UPS delivers on its sustainability goals
Energy-saving irrigation controlsLow-water landscape at a Vernon businessReducing stormwater pollution and protecting the LA River is a major goal for Vernon Water Protection and ConservationGoals:• Protect our ecosystem and increase adequate access to safe drinking water.• Conserve the usage of water.• Reduce the volume of untreated wastewater discharges.waterprotection +conservationTARGETTable 6 - Water Protection and Conservation Action PlanACTION TIMEFRAMEDevelop and implement programs to decrease potable water consumption 15% by 2020. Continue to protect water quality.Continue to reduce stormwater pollu-tion at the source.Evaluate the viability of implementing a “Recycled Water Master Plan”.Install durable water-saving fi xtures and devices.Install weather based irrigation controllers and landscape with drought resistant plants.Continue to implement a plan to minimize the City’s use of hazardous chemicals or materials for maintenance and operational purposes. Require City contractors and service providers to use lower-toxicity or non-toxic chemicals, or eliminate them completely for cleaning and pest control measures on City facilities.Require contractors to implement erosion and sediment enforcement control measures on renovation and construction projects. OngoingOngoingOngoingOngoingOngoingOngoing2829
wasteWaste Resources ManagementGoals:• Meet or exceed the 75% waste reduction goal of AB 341.• Maximize waste reduction and reuse practices.• Encourage the highest and best use of recycled materials.• Encourage further development of local recycling markets.• Encourage the purchase and use of renewable, nontoxic and environmental friendly products and services.• Encourage pollution prevention practices and reduce the use of toxic chemicals. Transfer stations deliver waste from route vehicles to more distant landfillsCommerce Waste-to-Energy Facility3031TARGETACTIONTIMEFRAMEAchieve zero waste sent to landfi lls by 2020.Develop and implement mandatory recycling ordinance to ensure that all businesses participate in recycling.Implement mandatory commercial recycling ordinance (fi nalize after adop-tion of regulations by CalRecycle).Develop documentation needed for dem-onstration of compliance with the State mandatory commercial recycling lawDevelop Environmental Preferred Purchasing Policy that incorporates incentives for extended manufacturers’ responsibility.Research product certifi cations (e.g., Green Seal, etc.) and other product and packaging evaluation protocols to deter-mine which environmentally preferred products the City should purchase. Work with franchised haulers to imple-ment additional recycling programs targeted to non-traditional materials.Develop sustainability product design purchasing preference policy and program as part of the Environmental Purchasing Plan.Work with existing haulers and recyclers to site and/or expand recycling facilities in the City. Expand the waste reduction and recy-cling technical assistance resources provided to businesses. Identify “best management practices” to serve as examples to other Vernon businesses.Reduce the City’s use of offi ce paper.Minimize disposal of universal waste and electronic wastes, and maximize recovery of recyclables portions of these specifi c streams.Adopt mandatory recycling ordinance. Gather data from haulers and develop recycling database of all businesses in Vernon. Adopt and implement an “Environmental Pre-ferred Purchasing Policy” addressing “green” services and products (i.e., repairable, long life, energy star rated equipment, post-consumer recycled content, sustainability-produced, non-toxic and chemical free). Develop and utilize a product evaluation protocol to compare environmentally pre-ferred products purchased for use by the City. Expand existing waste prevention and waste minimization programs.Expand the City recycling program to include additional materials.Encourage avendors to design safe, long last-ing, repairable and recyclable products and to take back products a the end of their useful life.Encourage and provide incentives for recyclers to locate within the City. Promote and encourage local business community to utilize their services. Actively promote and provide sustainability technical assistance programs to more busi-nesses on an as-requested basis in addition to the City’s business outreach program. Create best management “case studies” of exemplary environmental practices from busi-nesses in the City. Continue the practice of double-sided copying.Continue the transition to a more ‘paperless’ of-fi ce by storing more information on Laserfi che.Continue the City’s recycling program for electronics and universal wastes and support product take back programs and policies that reduce or eliminate product toxic contents.NearNearOngoingNearNearNearNearNearOngoingOngoingOngoingOngoingMeet with representatives of businesses and haulers to outline provisions of the ordinance. Ongoing Develop a ‘Zero Waste-to-landfi ll Plan. Near to MediumTable 7 – Waste Resources Management Action PlanRecycled electronic waste
3233 to landfi llzero waste zerSunshine Canyon Landfill in Sylmar
34355Chart 4 – GHG Emissions for 2008, 2010 and Business as Usual and Targeted Reductions3,0002,5002,0001,5001,0005000METRIC TONS CO2 EQUIVALENTDETAILED BY SCOPECity of Vernon Government Buildings/FacilitiesComparison of Greenhouse Gas Emisssions for 2008, 2010 & 2020 ProjectionsMetric Tons C02 Equivalent by Scope (Excluding Waste)1-Natural Gas, Petro, Generators, Fugitive2-Electricity-Streetlights/Traffi c Signals2-Electricity-Water DeliveryFacilities2-Electricity-OtherBuildings/Facilities3-Water (Electricity used to Treat/Distribute Water) 1-Vehicles486374 374339542520517393655613 6133092,5132,3722,2291,35495597591655610772 72412020-As Usual2008 20102020-Targetsenergy sourcesDid you know… that the City of Vernon owns 17,500 acres of prime wind land in the Tehachapi mountains with plans to generate up to 350 megawatts of clean renewable energy?DYK?Emission Reduction TargetsTable 8 below again shows the City’s current and projected greenhouse gas emissions, and additionally shows the targeted levels of greenhouse gas emissions that it seeks to achieve by 2020. These targeted reductions are shown graphically in Chart 4. These reductions will result from the targeted actions outlined in the previous sections. The largest reduction is targeted to occur in the emissions resulting from the electricity used to pump water to City buildings and facilities. This is due to the City’s plan to obtain one-third of its power from renewable energy sources by 2020. Business as Usual ProjectionTargeted Projection 2008 2010 2020 2020GHG metric tons GHG metric tons GHG metric tons GHG metric tons Greenhouse Gas Categories CO2 equivalent CO2 equivalent CO2 equivalent CO2 equivalent Scope 1: Direct Emissions Stationary combustion (on-site petroleum/gasoline generators) 4.31 6.99 6.99 6.99 Stationary natural gas (facilities) 104.87 118.81 118.81 100.99 Stationary natural gas (gas turbines) 261.09 129.45 129.45 129.45 On-road vehicles (fl eet trucks, fl eet cars) 525.62 499.65 496.96 372.88 Off-road vehicles (forklift, construction equipment) 16.71 20.21 20.21 20.21 Fugitive emissions (refrigeration, air conditioning, fi re suppression) 115.77 118.95 118.95 101.11 Scope 1 Subtotal 1,028.37 894.06 891.37 731.62 Scope 2: Indirect Emissions - Purchased Electricity Street light and traffi c signals 655.22 612.68 612.68 308.56 Water delivering facilities 2,512.84 2,371.74 2,229.44 1,353.72 Other buildings and facilities 954.80 974.86 916.37 556.42 Scope 2 Subtotal 4,122.85 3,959.28 3,758.49 2,218.70 Scope 3: Other Emissions - Electricity Used to Treat/Distribute Water Street light and traffi c signals 2.01 0.93 0.93 0.63 Water delivering facilities 15.23 18.69 18.69 10.67 Other buildings and facilities 89.85 52.77 52.77 30.12 Scope 3 Other Emissions Subtotal107.09 72.39 72.39 41.41 Total GHG Emission from Energy Usage (Scopes 1, 2, 3) 5,258.31 4,925.73 4,722.25 2,991.74Table 8 – Emission Reduction TargetsrenewableSUMMARY OF EMISSION TARGETS
3637A key feature of the City’s sustainability infrastructure is the continuation of the technical assistance that the City provides to its businesses. The City has been providing technical recycling assistance to its businesses since 2001. In 2008, the City expanded its techni-cal assistance program to include assistance with the conservation of energy, water and transportation fuels.This technical assistance consists of:• City contractors meeting with Vernon businesses to discuss their operations and ways they can reduce their carbon footprint.• Interviewing key personnel and using a sustainability checklist to prepare an abbreviated emissions inventory for each business.• Providing guidance on adopting sustainable operating practices. This may include providing literature and other resources to assist the businesses in reducing their carbon footprint.As the City develops its sustainability infrastructure, it will continue and expand the tech-nical assistance it provides to Vernon businesses.Joint UCLA-Gavina waste characterization study to determine recyclability of wastestreamCity of Vernon Health Department E-waste collection eventEarth Day exhibition at the Vernon Chamber of Commerce6TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE TO VERNON BUSINESSES
3839GREEN BUILDINGSThe City of Vernon will promote and encourage sustainable construction practices for all new construction projects, including improvements to existing City facilities. The City of Vernon recognizes that the environmental impact of the operations of City facilities can be signifi cant over the life of the buildings/facilities. As such, the City of Vernon will imple-ment environmentally sustainable operations and maintenance practices consistent with the LEED for Existing Buildings to reduce the environmental impacts of City facilities over their functional life cycle.The City of Vernon will research the applicability and feasibility for potential implementa-tion of the following programs:• Hardscaping/xeriscaping Management Plan• Integrated Pest Management, Erosion Control and Landscaping• Heat Island Reduction • Light Pollution Reduction• Water Effi ciency• Energy Effi ciency• Refrigerant Management• Waste Reduction / Recycling, Zero Waste-to-Landfi ll Disposal• Renewable Energy• Sustainable Purchasing (Environmental Preferred Purchasing)• Green Cleaning Policypromote+encourageRefurbished 90 year old stairwell at !iT CampusGreen walls reduce the need for energy to cool buildingsInnovative reuse of materials in the lobby of !iT Campus Artistic use of antique industrial fusebox7GREEN BUILDINGS
4041F. Gaviña & Sons, Inc. (Gaviña) is the nation’s largest minority family owned coffee roast-er. Gaviña’s company policies of supply chain management, sustainable growth and giving back to the community are fam-ily traditions and are reflected in the com-pany’s environmentally sustainable opera-tional protocols and corporate culture.Gaviña is one of the greenest companies in Southern California, and is known for its philanthropic support to the local and glob-al communities. Gaviña received the City of Vernon’s Solid Waste Alternative Programs award in 2007 for its recycling and energy conservation efforts and the Food Industry Business Roundtable (FIBR) award for the Best Food Processor of the Year in 2010.At Gaviña, reducing waste and decreasing its carbon footprint is a daily commitment. Currently, Gaviña diverts more than 80% of its waste stream from the landfill through proactive waste management programs and green manufacturing practices. The company continually evaluates its coffee processing and packaging operations for reuse, recycling, and energy conservation opportunities. Examples include recycling of wrappings, paper, cardboard, toner car-tridges and batteries. Gaviña continues to work with the City of Vernon, UCLA’s Engineering Extension Re-cycling Municipal Solid Waste Certificate program and other universities serving as a peer match model to share and men-tor sustainability practices and to inspire students and other businesses to become sustainable. Presently, Gaviña is evaluating recycling options for the coffee packaging bags and plastic films that will increase its diver-sion rate to over 90%. Gaviña also has an employee recycling program where all pro-ceeds from soda cans and water bottles recycled are reinvested in the employees. Other efforts include selling coffee bean burlap bags to companies for secondary applications such as multi-use grocery bags, and donating coffee chaff, the outer skin of the coffee bean, to a company that uses it to produce animal feed. Gaviña supports numerous international and domestic socially responsible pro-grams because the Gaviña family believes that health care and education are keys in the development of the individual, commu-nity, and protection of the environment. Ex-amples include improving educational in-frastructure for schools and implementing on-line learning centers in coffee farming communities in countries such as Nicara-gua, El Salvador and Mexico.Gaviñagreen manufacturing+Gaviña headquarters on Fruitland Ave.Residual coffee chaff is used for animal feed rather than sent to the landfillSchool children in coffee-growing regions learn computer skills courtesy of Gaviña & SonsCoffee packaging line at GavinaThe Gaviña family has been in the coffee business for over 100 years
43 8GREEN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTconservationeffeciency+resourceThe City’s sustainable infrastructure will also include a program to identify, attract and retain businesses that will contribute to Vernon’s culture of effi ciency and resource conser-vation. In addition to the kinds of businesses that already benefi t from Vernon’s business climate (food processing, furniture manufacturing, etc.), the types of fi rms the City plans to target will include:• Companies that manufacture products and/or develop systems that lead to a more effi cient use of natural resources. For example, the City may seek to attract fi rms that manufacture photovoltaic panels.• Companies that can use recyclable or reusable residual resources as raw materials. For example, the City may seek to attract fi rms that can use waste paper as packaging material, or fi rms with industrial processes that could benefi t from a reliable supply of reclaimed water.• Companies that use conversion technologies to convert post-recycled waste residuals into energy and/or useful materials. • Companies that have adopted a corporate policy to operate in a sustainable manner so as to minimize the impact of business operations on the environment.This program will consist of four components:Inventory of Available Vernon Facilities – The City will maintain a list of sites in the City that are available for occupancy or development.Outreach to Potential Businesses – The City will reach out to targeted businesses throughindustrial associations, and through Vernon businesses and their customer and vendor relationships.Financial Incentives – The City will continue to assist its businesses in procuring low cost loans such as the Recycling Market Development Zone and other programs, and/or will help assist in applying for grants/loans to fund sustainable environmental projects.Employee Skills Development – The City will establish a skills development fund to assistVernon businesses and trade unions to design and fi nance customized job-training proj-ects in concert with nearby community colleges (e.g., Los Angeles Trade-Tech, East Los Angeles College, etc.) and/or non-profi ts NGOs to increase the implementation of sustain-able environmental practices. It is the City’s goal that, through the Green Economic Development program, and throughthe other actions outlined in this Plan, both current and future members of the business community will continue Vernon’s heritage of effi ciency and sustainability. 42
PREPARED BYCITY OF VERNONHEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL DEPARTMENTWINTER 2011vernonsustainability action planCity of Vernon