Policies

1. Policy IU-4.3 Waste diversion

   We shall meet or exceed state waste diversion requirements, augment future landfill capacity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and use of natural resources through the reduction, reuse, or recycling of solid waste.

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2. Policy IU-5.5 Energy and fuel facilities

   We encourage the development and upgrade of energy and regional fuel facilities in areas that do not pose significant environmental or public health and safety hazards, and in a manner that is compatible with military operations and local community identity.

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Goals

1. GOAL NR-1 AIR QUALITY

   Air quality that promotes health and wellness of residents in San Bernardino County through improvements in locally-generated emissions

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Policies

1. Policy NR-1.1 Land use

   We promote compact and transit-oriented development countywide and regulate the types and locations of development in unincorporated areas to minimize vehicle miles traveled and greenhouse gas emissions.

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2. Policy NR-1.2 Indoor air quality

   We promote the improvement of indoor air quality through the California Building and Energy Codes and through the provision of public health programs and services.

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3. Policy NR-1.3 Coordination on air pollution

   We collaborate with air quality management districts and other local agencies to monitor and reduce major pollutants affecting the county at the emission source.

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4. Policy NR-1.4 Military coordination on air quality

   We collaborate with the military to avoid or minimize impacts on military training and operations from air pollution and haze.

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5. Policy NR-1.5 Sensitive land uses

   We consider recommendations from the California Air Resources Board on the siting of new sensitive land uses and exposure to specific source categories.

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6. Policy NR-1.6 Fugitive dust emissions

   We coordinate with air quality management districts on requirements for dust control plans, revegetation, and soil compaction to prevent fugitive dust emissions.

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7. Policy NR-1.7 Greenhouse gas reduction targets

   We strive to meet the 2040 and 2050 greenhouse gas emission reduction targets in accordance with state law.

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8. Policy NR-1.8 Construction and operations

   We invest in County facilities and fleet vehicles to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions. We encourage County contractors and other builders and developers to use low-emission construction vehicles and equipment to improve air quality and reduce emissions.

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9. Policy NR-1.9 Building design and upgrades

   We use the CALGreen Code to meet energy efficiency standards for new buildings and encourage the upgrading of existing buildings to incorporate design elements, building materials, and fixtures that improve environmental sustainability and reduce emissions.

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Related Materials

1. Policy Maps NR-1 Air Districts & Basins (PDF | WEB)

Goals

1. Goal RE-4 Environmental Compatibility

   The County will establish a new era of sustainable energy production and consumption in the context of sound resource conservation and renewable energy development practices that reduce greenhouse gases and dependency on fossil fuels

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Policies

1. Policy RE-1.1

   Continue implementing the energy conservation and efficiency measures identified in the County of San Bernardino Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Plan.

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2. Policy RE-4.1

   Apply standards to the design, siting, and operation of all renewable energy facilities that protect the environment, including sensitive biological resources, air quality, water supply and quality, cultural, archaeological, paleontological and scenic resources.

   • RE 4 .1.1: Consult with Native American tribes in the identification, evaluation, and treatment of cultural resources and in the preparation and implementation of measures required to identify, evaluate, protect, and manage cultural resources.
   • RE 4.1.2: RE development applications shall be subject to thorough environmental review, including consideration of water consumption, before being permitted.
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3. Policy RE-4.3

   Require construction and operation of all renewable energy facilities to minimize negative effects and optimize benefits to unincorporated communities.

   • RE 4.3.1: Define measures required to minimize ground disturbance, soil erosion, flooding, and blowing of sand and dust, with appropriate enforcement mechanisms in the Development Code.
   • RE 4.3.2: Require operators to track and report energy production and other benefits cited in a project proposal, in addition to tracking efforts to avoid and minimize negative impacts.
   • RE 4.3.3: Give preference to the utilization of existing infrastructure to minimize the need for additional transmission development.
   • RE 4.3.4: Establish inspection protocols and programs to ensure that RE facilities are constructed, operated, and eventually decommissioned consistent with the requirements of the San Bernardino County Code, and in a manner that will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or welfare.
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Policies

1. Policy HW-3.1 Healthy environments

   We collaborate with other public agencies, not-for-profit organizations, community groups, and private developers to improve the physical and built environment in which people live. We do so by improving such things as walkability, bicycle infrastructure, transit facilities, universal design, safe routes to school, indoor and outdoor air quality, gardens, green space and open space, and access to parks and recreation amenities.

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Goals

1. Goal HZ-3 Environmental Justice

   For unincorporated environmental justice focus areas, equitable levels of protection from environmental and health hazards; expanded opportunities for physical activity and meaningful civic engagement; and access to healthy food, public facilities, safe and sanitary housing.

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Policies

1. Policy HZ-3.8 Indoor Air Quality

   We educate and raise awareness in unincorporated environmental justice focus areas about indoor air quality, and we pursue grant funding to address asthma and other respiratory illnesses.

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2. Policy HZ-3.19 Community education

   We make educational materials available to the public in unincorporated environmental justice focus areas so that they clearly understand the potential for adverse pollution, noise, odor, vibration, and lighting and glare, and the effects of toxic materials to promote civil engagement. We require that such educational materials be developed in accordance with Plain Language Guidelines. We require that this information be made available in public spaces such as libraries and community centers, as well as on County websites and other appropriate means.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT F - Reduce incidence of health issues related to air quality by providing or expanding targeted programs—such as expansion of the breath-mobile, in-home health consultations, and air filters for sensitive receptors.

   Action Statement F.1

   6.1 Municipal Advisory Council assesses health conditions in Bloomington (with support of Department of Public Health and South Coast Air Quality Management District)

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   Action Statement F.2

   6.2 Municipal Advisory Council conducts an air quality community workshop

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT C - Build human capital and promote enterprise, with a focus on environmentally friendly businesses, to strengthen the local economy and provide opportunities for residents and families to be self-reliant.

   Action Statement C.1

   Promote child and youth development, social and civic responsibility, and environmental stewardship by establishing a multigenerational community council with youth in leadership positions to advocate for and support activities that enrich our community and our environment.

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2. FOCUS STATEMENT D - Become a destination renowned for culture, environment, health, and well-being for people of all ages and abilities.

   Action Statement D.1

   Establish a resource conservation program to designate open space resources, establish a dedicated funding source, and actively promote open space protection through land acquisition, conservation easements, mitigation monitoring, volunteer support, and other similar tools.

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   Action Statement D.2

   Promote family- and eco-friendly tourism that educates people about our natural surroundings, dark skies, and quiet nature.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT C - Create affordable outdoor recreation activities that capitalize on the natural environment, attract visitors, and provide entertainment for residents while also reducing the associated impacts to the communities

   Action Statement C.4

   Develop programs and marketing materials that educate visitors on the natural environment and importance of its protection in order to foster responsible tourist behavior.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT A - Preserve the historic western themed rural lifestyle

   Action Statement A.7

   Protect, maintain, and expand open spaces in the community.

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