ASC's Intersections Newsletter — February 24, 2023
Nora's Note
Words matter. A sidebar at a public engagement meeting recently highlighted how much work is ahead in understanding systemic racism, if equity is to become fully realized. The use of the single word, “stakeholder,” a mainstay in today’s public engagement practice, prompted an hour of discussion and debate. The term actually comes out of 17th century colonization, when settlers drove wooden stakes into the ground to claim land without permission or compensation; while public engagement intends the word to identify an individual or group that will be impacted by an action or decision, for Indigenous Peoples, it can underscore inequity. While “affected parties” may not roll off the tongue, if language is culture, then the time is right to realign public engagement practice around more inclusive, intentional language.
Transportation
The Biden administration aims to make EV charging as easy as filling up. Amid growing consumer demand for electric vehicles, the USDOT has unveiled new guidelines to jumpstart nationwide EV charger infrastructure for federally funded projects. The Biden Administration aims to bring the country closer to the goal of 500,000 charging stations by 2030, allow equitable access to charging stations and simplify the charging process for EV owners nationwide. The US currently has roughly 160,000 charging stations. Read more on the current EV charging environment and USDOT's goals for the future. (Source: Grist)
Metro: The Future of Passenger Transit Cleaning
Local Today: How can California buses and trains become safer? New law wants to find out
Smart Cities Dive: ‘Noise cameras’ aim to address vehicle nuisance complaints on city streets
WCNC: Charlotte transportation leaders vote on I-77 express lane proposal
Energy/Environment
Investing in diversity, equity and inclusion in the clean energy industry. As offshore wind development gains speed, governments and organizations are investing time and effort for an equitable clean energy transition. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) released its first DEI report in late 2022, calling for training on equitable and inclusive talent practices and bias mitigation. The Offshore Wind Industry Council (OWIC) has exhorted its members to improve representation and innovation at the leadership level. The Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA) commended some states’ requirements that offshore wind developers include comprehensive DEI plans in their procurement processes. Read more on the importance of DEI in the clean energy transition. (Source: The Ritz Herald)
Eos: The Global Health Benefits of Going Net Zero
Inside Climate News: EPA Announces $27 Billion Effort to Curb Emissions and Stem Environmental Injustices. Advocates Say It’s a Good Start.
Solar Power World: Gov. Murphy accelerates New Jersey’s 100% clean energy goal by 15 years
Fox: WV Senate approves $105 million for a renewable energy plant
Economic Development
US counties are piloting a coalition for guaranteed income programs. After the success of Covid-19 stimulus payments, Chicago’s Cook County, Los Angeles County and more have launched guaranteed cash payment programs to benefit vulnerable residents. The county governments will serve on the new Counties for Guaranteed Income Coalition to ensure a stable foundation for lower-income families. A greater extension of this program, Mayors for a Guaranteed Income, includes more than 100 city leaders across the country working directly with vulnerable communities. Read more about other guaranteed income pilot programs and their goals. (Source: Bloomberg)
Gothamist: Queens hotel will be NYC’s 7th humanitarian relief center for asylum-seekers
Phys Org: New UC San Diego model predicts housing prices to fall as much as 18% this year
Utility Dive: US issues Inflation Reduction Act guidance to drive billions to low-income and coal communities
Smart Cities Dive: San Francisco announces downtown revitalization strategic plan
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