ASC's Intersections Newsletter — June 28th, 2024
Nora’s Note
Combating mis- and disinformation with public engagement. This week, the US Supreme Court ruled that the executive branch may continue to push social media platforms to take down posts that classify as mis- and disinformation on their sites. The decision comes amid mounting concerns over AI-generated content online, with significant implications for public engagement and public sector projects. The World Economic Forum labeled mis- and disinformation as the top international risks in the Global Risks Report 2024, emphasizing the close connection between online information and key issues such as climate action, economic development, public health and infrastructure. And with the average American spending over 7 hours a day online and over 2 hours of that time on social media platforms, the information we get online has greater and greater influence over how we interact in a changing world. AI and social media will continue to pose both a challenge and a great opportunity for public engagement, offering ways to speed up public outreach and amplify community engagement, breaking barriers to information access and increasing transparency in our public participation processes.
Transportation
City proposes short busway for clogged Cross-Bronx roadway. The Department of Transportation (DOT) is planning an 11-block busway on Tremont Avenue in the Bronx to improve the slow Bx36 bus service. This 0.6-mile, two-way busway between Third Avenue and Southern Boulevard will permit only trucks and emergency vehicles, with cars and taxis required to turn off. The busway aims to increase bus speeds, currently as low as 4.5 miles per hour. Read more for further information. (Source: Streetsblog)
NBC New York: Feds give final congestion pricing approval, week after Hochul put plan on pause
Bangor Daily News: Portland gets keys to Maine’s 1st electric garbage truck
CNBC: Used EV price crash keeps getting deeper with ‘premium’ brand idea history
Climate
The American Climate Corps officially kicks off. The American Climate Corps officially inducted its first members during a virtual White House event. The initiative, part of President Biden's climate agenda, will deploy 9,000 people to restore landscapes and install solar panels, with over 20,000 young people expected to join in its first year. Read more on how this program seeks to provide green career opportunities, address skilled labor shortages, and support environmental remediation in communities nationwide. (Source: Grist)
EHN: In a warming world, nurses heal people and the planet
Route Fifty: Communities step up their resilience and climate planning
E&E News: Chicago teachers demand climate action in union contract
Economic Development
Philly home repair program seen as climate resilience tool gets its first city funding. Philadelphia's City Council allocated $5 million to the Built to Last program, boosting funding for energy-efficient home repairs and renewable energy installations. The program supports low-income homeowners, reduces emissions, and aims to address its 1,600-family waitlist, serving 400 more homes next year. Read more about Philadelphia's increased budget allocation for the Built to Last program. (Source: WHYY PBS)
Associated Press: Vermont Legislature overrides governor, passing overdose prevention, renewable energy, tax measures
E&E News: DOE floats $900M to build advanced reactors
The Cap Times: UW-Extension receives $1 million to help site solar and wind projects
Digital
AI can help shipping industry cut down emissions, report says. AI-driven sea navigation could reduce global commercial shipping carbon emissions by 47 million tons annually. This technology minimizes maneuvers and route deviations, enhancing safety and efficiency. With AI, ships can save fuel, cut costs, and decrease close encounters by 33%, contributing to the International Maritime Organization's goal of a 20% emissions reduction by 2030. Read more about the impact of AI on the shipping industry. (Source: Reuters)
Independent: ‘Liquid battery’ breakthrough could supercharge renewables transition, scientists say
GovTech: 311’s Culture Shift in City Communications Now Aided by AI
Route Fifty: 3D visualization predicts hurricane damage before it happens
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