Goals:
● Nurture a diverse, stable, local economy that supports basic needs of all segments of the community.
● Businesses, organizations and local government agencies within Santa Monica continue to increase the efficiency of their use of resources through the adoption of sustainable business practices. The city takes a leadership role by developing a plan by 2005 to increase the adoption of sustainable practices by Santa Monica businesses and encouraging sustainable businesses to locate in Santa Monica.

Santa Monica’s economy remains strong and diverse with growth in the tourism, retail, and information sectors.  The local economy remains resilient with no sector representing more than 25% of the total economic activity. To build on this success, the City Council funded the creation of a Sustainable Economic Development Strategy to attract and retain businesses that support economic development, social responsibility and environmental stewardship.   The city, the Chamber of Commerce, the Convention and Visitors Bureau and Sustainable Works are collaborating on projects to promote sustainable businesses and improve the quality of life for residents and visitors. Over 20 Santa Monica businesses were recognized for their exceptional commitment to sustainable practices through the Green Business Certification Program and the Sustainable Quality Awards. An additional 20 businesses received comprehensive green business consultations as part of the Sustainable Works Business Greening Program. However, the rising cost of living and an unbalanced ratio of jobs to housing make it difficult for people to live near their workplace, exacerbating local and regional traffic and parking problems. Santa Monica’s jobs/housing balance rose to 1.52 this year, a further move away from the 1.0 target established in the Sustainable City Plan. The grade improvement reflects the continued adoption of business greening practices throughout the community.