ASC's Intersections Newsletter — February 16th, 2024
Nora's Note
Making connections and driving progress across industries. ASC staff attended a flurry of industry events over the past week, joining the Bipartisan Policy Center’s Direct Air Capture Day, the National Association of State Energy Officials’ Energy Outlook Conference and the 2024 New York Build Expo. Attended by leaders from US Department of Energy’s Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs, New York City Council, NYSERDA, the Waterfront Alliance, NYC Department of Environmental Conservation, and others, the events highlighted the important intersection of government policy, private innovation and public engagement in the fight for a more equitable, sustainable future. While a majority of Americans support a transition to renewable energy sources and taking steps to reduce carbon emissions, much work remains to ensure the benefits of climate action are distributed equitably. A commitment to green energy, collaboration across industries, and community-informed planning will be critical to setting an inclusive foundation for a resilient future.
Transportation
States warm up to intercity and rural bus service. After a steady decline that accelerated during the pandemic, states are now increasing momentum for rural and inter-city bus service. This renewed interest by state governments aligns with treating bus and train services as a unified network, a core emphasis of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Read more on how robust and interconnected transportation services may change in the coming years. (Source: Smart Cities Dive)
Mass Transit Mag: FTA awards nearly $110 million in funding for natural disaster relief
The Philadelphia Inquirer: Bus Revolution would bring frequent bus service to 1 million SEPTA riders
Street Blog: Study: Subsidizing Transit Actually Makes It More Efficient
Climate
9 states band together to phase out fossil fuel heating in homes. Officials from nine states agreed to promote electric heat pumps over gas furnaces in new buildings by 2030, aiming for 65% adoption in six years and 90% by 2040. Many manufacturers and state leaders back the initiative, recognizing the importance of addressing building emissions to achieve climate goals, improve air quality, and encourage market development for heat pumps. Read more to learn about the growing momentum for heat pumps across the country. (Source: Route Fifty)
Inside Climate News: A Year Before Biden’s First Term Ends, Environmental Regulators Rush to Aid Disinvested Communities
Canary Media: Renters, you too can get a heat pump — a micro one, at least
E&E News: EPA cracks down on soot emissions
Economic Development
NASA scientists use artificial intelligence to achieve revolutionary feat with traditional farming. High resolution maps from satellite images analyzed with artificial intelligence are being used to enhance farm production in Hawai’i. This cutting-edge effort, led by Arizona State University and funded by NASA, allows detailed monitoring of crop health, soil, and water usage to increase efficient use of resources, proving to be a powerful tool to counter the agricultural challenges caused by climate change and policy failures. Read more on how the project increases food security on the islands. (Source: The Cool Down)
Route Fifty: Prevention pays off: Wellness programs help states care for an aging population
Facilities Dive: New York City to pilot automated collection of large containers for high-density buildings
ScienMag: New water-focused innovation engine aims to turn waste into wealth for Great Lakes region
Digital
‘Safer Internet Day’ offers free resources to parents, children. Safer Internet Day emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in kids' online lives. With a focus on fostering healthy digital habits, the campaign encourages open dialogue about internet use. The National Parent Teacher Association advocates for the "three T's" strategy (talk, try, teach) to explore apps with children, ensuring safer online experiences. Read more on how this equips families with strategies for navigating the digital world, amidst debates over children's rights and parental control online. (Source: Public News Service)
Axios: Homeland Security seeks AI talent from Silicon Valley
Michigan Advance: Lawmakers seek to boost Michigan film production by reviving tax credits
Government Technology: Data Index Tool Offers Glimpse at School Success Boundaries
About Arch Street Communications
At ASC, we help government agencies, corporations and nonprofit organizations across the globe communicate issues that affect people’s lives. We’re the bold, nimble, women-owned small business (WBE) that has supported strategic communications programs to build stronger communities for 30 years.
Ready to find the “simple truth” solutions to build a better future? We want to hear from you! Get in touch to learn how our signature approach can work for you.
Subscribe to Arch Street Communications' Newsletter Intersections
