Equity in sustainability policies and programs can be achieved only if a diverse, representative mix of residents are involved in development, implementation, and management.

Methods like participatory decision-making help to equip and engage residents to advance sustainability, and efforts like the establishment of the LA County Youth Climate Commission (YCC) and the Anti-Racism, Diversity, and Inclusion Initiative (ARDI) reflect the strong interest in deeper, meaningful engagement and accountability. This can help ensure the inclusion of groups that have been traditionally underrepresented and limited from decision-making spaces because of institutional discrimination and other barriers such as language, transportation, and financial and time constraints.