SUSTAINABLE CITIES
The vision statement attached to the GEAP says : “ New York City has always been a leader in sustainability . Bolstered by ambitious climate policies , the average New York City household emits one-third less carbon than the typical US household .
It adds : “ To remain at the vanguard of sustainability and innovation , we must support a broader green transformation , while ensuring that this massive economic opportunity benefits all New Yorkers – especially communities and neighbourhoods that have suffered from historic disparities and environmental injustice .”
What ’ s the Plan ? In her foreword to the Plan , Maria Torres-Springer , Deputy Mayor for Housing , Economic Development & Workforce , writes : “ No matter the season , New York City is experiencing the impacts of a warming planet .
“ It is plain to see that more extreme weather events are hitting the city with greater frequency . This is our reality , and the city of New York is confronting the challenges of climate change unlike any city in the world .”
The Plan outlines NYC ’ s commitment to 63 actions , identifying a path to :
• Decarbonise buildings and construction
• Develop a renewable energy system
• Enable low-carbon alternatives in the transportation sector
• Catalyse business growth , job creation and innovation in climate technologies
• Ensure an equitable green economy ecosystem .
Maria adds : “ The Green Economy Action Plan builds on New York City ’ s spirit of resilience and the work underway across city government to offer an integrated economic development agenda and talent strategy .