Meet Professor Green: LA’s New Digital Ally in the Fight Against Food Waste

Professor Green (Photo – City of Los Angeles, Department of Public Works, Public Affairs Office)

In celebration of Earth Month, LA Sanitation and Environment (LASAN) has launched Professor Green, a new digital tool designed to help Angelenos sort their organic waste more effectively.

By News Desk

Following a successful soft launch, LASAN is now rolling out Professor Green in South LA, Watts, Northridge, and Porter Ranch as initial test markets. Developed by Hello Lamp Post, a leader in civic interactive technology, the tool is designed to answer common questions about Los Angeles’ three-bin waste system and educate the public on proper food waste disposal.

“Professor Green is an example of how LASAN embraces new and emergent technologies in order to engage with and help educate LA residents,” said LASAN Executive Director Barbara Romero. “We are committed to providing the best possible customer experience for all Angelenos and that includes being adaptive to how people consume information.”

Residents can interact with Professor Green simply by scanning a QR code or texting a phone number displayed on various signs and outreach materials throughout the community. The friendly digital character offers instant guidance on how to dispose of specific food waste items—whether they belong in the recycling, compost, or trash bin—making sustainable waste practices more accessible and easier to follow.

“We’re thrilled to bring Hello Lamp Post’s technology to Los Angeles,” said Isabel Loos, Head of Engagement and spokesperson for Hello Lamp Post. “This initiative makes waste sorting easier for residents and encourages responsible sorting practices, supporting LA’s vision of a more sustainable and greener city.”

Professor Green is available 24/7, providing immediate answers to disposal questions, promoting best practices, and empowering users with knowledge. With multilingual support and a focus on accessibility, the tool will play a vital role in helping the City reach its waste management and sustainability goals—especially in LA’s diverse communities.