Sustainability Elements

Material Resources Management

Environmental Stewardship

Protection of the environment and conservation of natural resources.

Economic Viability

Efficient operations of all facilities, stimulation of local and regional economic growth, and generating economic value through employment and procurement practices.

Since 1992, waste reduction and recycling has been a daily part of operations at LAX.


LAWA works closely with airport stakeholders and City of LA departments to improve, expand, and develop recycling and waste reduction activities at LAX to meet waste diversion goals laid out in the Sustainable City pLAn for Los Angeles and achieve regulation compliance.

Performance Summary

LAX Recycled Material 2014

LAWA diverted 67% of waste produced at LAX from the landfill or incinerator in 2014. Over 25,000 tons of materials were reused, recycled or source reduced at LAX in 2014, which is equivalent to the weight of 43 fully-loaded A-380 jumbo jets at takeoff.

Environmentally Preferably
Purchasing (EPP)

Since 2008, LAWA has purchased paper products such as copy paper, paper towels, toilet rolls and toilet seat covers containing 30% Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) content or higher.

LAX Pavement Reuse

(tons)

Material Cost Savings

($ USD)

CO2 Avoided

(metric tons)

Energy Saved

(Million BTUs)

Our Stories

Award-Winning LAX Harvest Food Donation Program

Since late 2013, LAWA has partnered with Food Donation Connection, HMS Host, and Hudson Group to collect and donate unsold, packaged ready-to-eat foods items from the Central Terminal Area for donation to community service organizations. In 2015, LAWA received the annual Los Angeles County Green Leadership Award for demonstrating “outstanding and innovative environmental sustainability” through the program that also benefits homeless and low-income families and individuals.

Used Glasses Donation

During the month of April 2015, LAWA employees supported Lions Club, a community service organization, on its efforts to provide glasses and sunglasses to people who need them, but cannot afford them. LAWA employees donated 115 pairs of eyeglasses, 41 pairs of sunglasses and 79 cases.

Want more info? Visit Our LAX.