During the week of April 4, the National Basketball Association partnered with the Natural Resources Defense Council for the third annual NBA Green Week in an effort to generate awareness and funds for protecting the environment.
In line with league-wide efforts and the organization’s mission to be environmentally responsible, the Los Angeles Lakers organized its second annual Eco Week presented by East West Bank beginning April 1st and concluding on April 6th with Eco Night.
Some highlights from Eco Week included a beach cleanup with members of the Lakers organization, special giveaways such as recycled eco basketballs autographed by Lakers players, PA announcements reminding fans how to be more eco-friendly, and a large recycling effort by
East West Bank who donated over 800 phones to the Verizon Wireless Hopeline program.
On Eco Night, all fans in attendance received a reusable tote bag from East West Bank. Prior to tip-off, the Los Angeles Lakers and East West Bank recognized ADEMA Technologies and Borrego Solar Systems, builders and consultants of solar power systems, for making a positive impact with their businesses towards preserving the environment. ADEMA and Borrego representatives were each presented with a recycled eco basketball signed by Kobe Bryant.
That night at the game, fans had the opportunity to visit the Eco Station booth to pick up a free “meter” of rainforest from Cuipo, an international initiative whose mission it is to protect and preserve the world’s endangered rainforest. Also, at the Eco Station booth was Heal the Bay, a local non-profit environmental group working to keep southern California coastal waters and watersheds safe, healthy, and clean. One lucky fan walked away with a recycled eco basketball signed by Pau Gasol and one lucky row won Cuipo Save the Rainforest t-shirts.
While Eco Week and Eco Night have passed, The Los Angeles Lakers and East West Bank invite you to continue to help the environment by being proactive at home and in the community. Join us in saving our environment 365 days a year!
Happy Earth Day 2012
