In October 1997, South Coast AQMD adopted guiding principles and ten initiatives to ensure environmental equity. The four guiding principles are:

1. All basin residents have the right to live and work in an environment of clean air, free of airborne health threats.

2. Government is obligated to protect the public health.

3. The public and private sectors have the right to be informed of scientific findings concerning hazardous and toxic emission levels, and to participate in the development and implementation of adequate environmental regulations in their communities.

4. The Governing Board is to uphold the civic expectation that the public and private sectors of the basin will engage in practices that contribute to a healthy economy and truly  livable environment.