Sustainability at the 2026 Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods

The Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods is proud to promote environmental stewardship. This year, we invited all participants to join our zero-waste mission.

Decorating Sustainably

The 2026 Congress of Neighborhoods Quilt is our sustainability‑powered showstopper — a bold, reusable, community‑made fabric backdrop that replaces wasteful vinyl and plastic with something far more meaningful. Neighborhood Councils stepped up and sent in their NC t‑shirts and tote bags, stitching together a vibrant, living tapestry that celebrates the unity, creativity, and spirit of Los Angeles’ 99 NCs.

In keeping with our commitment to reducing event waste, this year’s décor leans on reusable and recyclable paper elements — no balloons, no landfill fluff, just pure community pride. The quilt doubles as a photo backdrop and a long‑term symbol of collaboration and environmental responsibility across our NC system.

Huge thanks to every NC that contributed your shirts and totes — and an extra‑special shoutout to our quiltmaker, Bianca Rose Bustos, whose artistry, skill, and heart brought this sustainable vision to life.

Here’s a sneak preview of our collaboration… and we can’t wait to see you at City Hall on Saturday, September 26th.

Choose Your Program Style

In our efforts to be more eco-friendly, we’re excited to offer both digital and printed programs for this year’s event! Browse the digital version on your phone for easy access or pick up a printed copy at the registration desk if you prefer something you can hold in your hands. Select the option that works best for you and enjoy the event your way!

Sipping Sustainably

In support of our goals of achieving a zero-waste Congress of Neighborhoods, we invited all attendees to bring reusable water bottles to take advantage of our water stations, sponsored by the Los Angeles World Airports. Additionally, for our coffee drinkers, attendees were encouraged to bring their reusable coffee cups/mugs.

Wear it, Plant it, Watch it Grow

This year’s celebration plants the seeds of change—literally! Our California Native Seeded Badges were more than name tags—they were future wildflower patches waiting to bloom in your garden, sidewalk strip, or favorite pot. Each badge contained a cheerful mix of native seeds: California Blue Bells, California Poppy, Chinese House, Five Spot, and Tidy Tips—all chosen to bring color, biodiversity, and joy to urban spaces.

Paired with lanyards made from 100% recycled materials, these keepsakes reflected our shared commitment to sustainability and beauty that lasts.

Compost, Trash and Recycling

All attendees at the Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods were asked to participate in proper disposal practices at this year’s event. Staff from the LA Sanitation and Environment Department was present to assist attendees with proper disposal into compost, trash, and recycling bins.

Exhibitor Fair Sustainability Agreement

All exhibitors at the Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods agreed to the following:

At the Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods, we are committed to reducing our environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices. As an exhibitor, you play a vital role in helping us achieve a low-waste event. We ask our exhibitors to, whenever possible:

  • Minimize Single-Use Materials – Avoid single-use plastics and non-recyclable materials. Whenever possible, use compostable, reusable, or recyclable materials.

  • Eco-Friendly Promotional Materials – Prioritize digital marketing over printed materials. If print materials are necessary, use recycled or sustainably sourced paper.

  • Reduce Waste in Booth Design – Opt for reusable or rental display materials. Avoid disposable booth elements that contribute to landfill waste.

  • Sustainable Giveaways – Choose eco-friendly promotional items such as plantable seed cards, reusable products, or digital gifts instead of plastic trinkets.

  • Responsible Waste Management – Properly sort and dispose of waste using the recycling and composting stations provided by the event.

  • Encourage Sustainable Transportation – Promote the use of public transportation, carpooling, or other low-carbon travel options for booth staff.