At Lifers Leaving a Legacy (3Ls), environmental protection isn’t just about conservation—it’s about safeguarding the health, safety, and future of Oakland’s most vulnerable communities. We recognize that polluted air, toxic waste, and environmental neglect aren’t distant threats; they are daily realities that impact lives, livelihoods, and entire neighborhoods.

For us, environmental protection means ensuring that every Oakland resident—especially those in Communities of Concern—has access to clean air, safe water, and a healthy, thriving environment. It means combating the hazards that put our communities at risk, from industrial pollution to the effects of climate change. It means educating, equipping, and empowering people with the knowledge and resources to protect themselves and their city.

This is our mission. This is our movement. We see you, we stand with you, and we are fighting for a stronger, cleaner, and more resilient Oakland.

Clean Air for Oakland: Breathing Shouldn’t Be Dangerous

The air we breathe should sustain us—not make us sick. Yet, in East Oakland, pollution levels are dangerously high, leading to increased rates of asthma, heart disease, and cancer. This isn’t just bad luck—it’s the result of unchecked emissions, industrial pollution, and a lack of environmental protections in our most impacted communities.

At 3Ls, we are tracking air quality disparities, demanding stronger regulations, and advocating for cleaner, healthier neighborhoods. No one should have to choose between staying in their community and protecting their health. We are fighting for a future where every Oakland resident can breathe freely—without fear.

Plastic Reduction: Protecting Oakland, Preserving Our Future

Plastic waste isn’t just litter—it’s an environmental threat that poisons our water, pollutes our soil, and harms our health. Oakland’s most impacted communities are flooded with disposable, low-quality products, forcing us to bear the burden of plastic pollution.

At 3Ls, we are taking a stand. Through education, advocacy, and direct action, we are reducing plastic waste, pushing for sustainable alternatives, and holding producers accountable. This isn’t just about cleaning up—it’s about reclaiming our environment and ensuring a healthier, waste-free future for all Oakland residents.

Combating Illegal Cigarette Sales: Protecting Health, Defending Our Environment

Illegal cigarette sales don’t just harm public health—they pollute our air, land, and water, worsening the environmental hazards our communities already face. Cheap, loosely sold cigarettes increase toxic air pollution, while discarded cigarette butts litter our streets, contaminating our soil and waterways.

At 3Ls, we are taking a stand against illegal cigarette sales by raising awareness, pushing for stronger enforcement, and leading clean-up efforts to reduce their environmental and health impacts. This isn’t just about smoking—it’s about stopping pollution at its source and protecting the future of our neighborhoods.

Our community’s health matters more than illegal profits. Together, we can create a cleaner, safer Oakland.

At 3L, we believe that environmental protection is about people—about your health, your family, and your future. The challenges we face are not just environmental; they are social, economic, and deeply rooted in systems that have neglected and harmed our communities. But we are not waiting for change—we are actively creating it.

We need you—whether you're a community member, an organization, or an ally—to stand with us in this fight for a cleaner, healthier Oakland. Together, we can build a city where every resident has the opportunity to thrive in a safe and just environment. Your support, your voice, and your actions will drive this vision forward and help make it a reality.

Ending Food Deserts: Fresh, Affordable Food for All

Access to nutritious, affordable food is a basic necessity—yet too many East Oakland residents live in food deserts, where grocery stores are scarce and corner stores overcharge for low-quality options. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s an environmental and public health crisis that impacts our community’s well-being.

At 3L, we are partnering with local organizations to create community gardens, expand access to fresh food, and push for policy changes that bring fair pricing and quality nutrition to our neighborhoods. No one should have to travel across town just to put healthy food on the table. We are reclaiming our right to fresh, affordable food—right here in our own communities.

Ending Illegal Dumping: Protecting Our Environment, Safeguarding Our Communities

At 3Ls, we see illegal dumping not just as blight—but as an environmental hazard threatening the health, safety, and dignity of Oakland residents. Piles of waste pollute our air and waterways, attract vermin, and create dangerous conditions for families.

We are taking direct action to combat this crisis by leading clean-up efforts, advocating for stronger enforcement, and working with the community to prevent dumping at its source. A clean city isn’t a privilege—it’s a necessity. Every Oakland resident deserves safe, healthy streets, free from toxic waste and neglect.

This is more than a fight for cleaner neighborhoods—it’s a movement to restore Oakland’s self-esteem and protect our future.