ASC's Intersections Newsletter — March 28th, 2025
Nora’s Note
Now for some good news. Despite current uncertainty and conflict, many companies are sticking to their sustainability targets, and choosing to stay the course set a few years back. They continue to invest in clean energy, electrification, and carbon reduction strategies that are good for the planet, employment, and long-term performance. They may adjust timelines, recalibrate strategies, or even do some wordsmithing, but the important trend is this one: climate goals are holding. More companies than ever are reporting their achievements—and people are paying attention, and that’s the subtext for anyone in climate related communications strategy. Customers want to buy from brands that mean what they say. Employees want to work for companies that care. Investors want long-term thinking. At least for now, forward-thinking companies are keeping climate action not as a side project but as a business imperative that’s baked into operations, product development, and decision-making.
Transportation
End of the line: MTA to end MetroCard sales by Dec. 31 to make room for OMNY. After 32 years, the MetroCard is being phased out in favor of the new OMNY system. 65% of subway ridership already uses the tap system, with the goal to completely overhaul by December 31st. Many users support OMNY, citing that it is quicker, more convenient, and comes with discounts which can save riders money. Read more about the end of the MetroCard. (Source: AMNY)
Streets Blog: Congestion Pricing’s Big Winner? Bus Riders
Mass Transit: PhoenixEV partners with Noodoe to accelerate zero-emissions transit sustainability
Northeastern Global News: How cities can cut transportation emissions. New Northeastern research reveals key strategies
Climate
A tradition of stewardship, a future of innovation: Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation’s agricultural leadership. The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation is setting a new standard for Indigenous-led agricultural leadership, demonstrating how innovation and tradition can work hand in hand. By expanding sustainable farming, reviving ancestral practices, and investing in food sovereignty, the Tribe is building a resilient future while strengthening its cultural heritage. Their efforts highlight the role of Indigenous stewardship in shaping sustainable food systems. Read more about their efforts to improve community health and sustainable practices. (Source: UConn Today)
Anthropocene: New paper resolves a half-century old debate about how to conserve biodiversity in natural areas
Happy Eco News: Campus solar charging stations: zero cost to schools and students
The Daily Climate: U.S. scientists push forward with climate research despite government withdrawal
Economic Development
Governor Hochul awards more than $270 million to build and preserve 1,800 affordable homes across New York. The funding comes as part of a $25 billion five-year housing plan for 100,000 affordable homes across the state. The projects awarded intend to increase housing supply, increase energy efficiency, and upgrade public housing for residents. The awards are distributed across different projects in the state with $53.8 million going toward New York City housing developments. Read more for a detailed overview of the awarded projects. (Source: New York State)
Saporta Report: How the Community Business Development Program is strengthening Georgia’s small businesses
The City: Brooklyn apartments tap into the Earth for heating and cooling
Smart Cities Dive: New York state offers $5M for existing building energy innovations
Digital
Satellite launch kicks off a new effort to monitor wildfires from space. A new initiative, called FireSat, is launching a satellite constellation to detect wildfires from space. The first FireSat satellite successfully launched on March 14, 2025, and the constellation, expected to grow to 50 satellites by 2030, will offer early detection of fires as minor as 5x5 meters. The system aims to provide crucial real-time data to improve wildfire response efforts. Read more about how FireSat could revolutionize wildfire monitoring. (Source: The Verge)
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
