ASC's Intersections Newsletter — October 11th, 2024
Nora’s Note
Indigenous voices in climate action. This Monday marks Indigenous Peoples' Day in the US. Indigenous peoples are subject to some of the highest risks from the effects of climate change yet have also been at the forefront in climate resilience efforts, applying deep knowledge and appreciation of the land to innovative and collaborative projects across the nation. Indigenous communities possess a long history of sustainable land practices and natural resource management, and their engagement in climate resilience efforts and the energy transition is vital. Meaningful collaboration with indigenous peoples in these projects both respects tribal sovereignty and ensures that the history and knowledge of the land is utilized in creating resiliency solutions. By actively and thoughtfully engaging indigenous voices in climate action efforts, we can create more equitable policies that address both climate challenges and historical injustices, fostering a future of shared environmental stewardship.
Transportation
New report paves the way for expansion of Penn Station to increase train service. A new report commissioned by the MTA, NJ Transit, and Amtrak supports Amtrak’s plan to demolish a block south of 31st Street to expand Penn Station’s capacity from 24 to 48 trains per hour. Alternatives like “through-running,” which would increase capacity to only 40 trains, and adding track beneath the station were deemed either inadequate or too disruptive. Read more on why the Penn South expansion is the only viable option. (Source: Gothamist)
Smart Cities Dive: Micromobility on the rebound in 2024
WHYY: History meets sustainability: Cape May-Lewes Ferry goes green with $80M eco-friendly vessel
AmNY: Construction begins on new 96th Street bus lane in Manhattan
Climate
The EPA’s National Clean Investment Fund (NCIF), also known as the U.S.’s “green bank”, has kicked off its first project with a $31.8 million investment to create 18 solar plants in Arkansas. Scenic Hill Solar, in partnership with the University of Arkansas, will develop these plants, which are expected to generate over 4 billion kWh of renewable energy benefiting around 3 million students, faculty, and residents. The investment will transform Arkansas' energy landscape by boosting clean energy access in rural America and uplifting local economies. Read more about the first investment. (Source: Trellis)
The Daily Record: MD Energy Administration offers new rounds of grants for community solar, resilience hubs
CNBC: Michigan nuclear plant finalizes federal loan to support first reactor restart in U.S. history
WTAJ: 2K acre solar farm to be built in Pennsylvania, largest in the state
Economic Development
Affordable multifamily housing owners would get decarbonization help in NYC proposal. New York City is proposing the GreenHOUSE Fund to support rent-regulated multifamily housing and low-income co-ops in compliance with Local Law 97, which mandates strict greenhouse gas emissions reductions for large buildings. The fund would be financed by the sale of offset certificates that building owners can purchase to meet up to 10% of their emissions targets. Read more on how this initiative addresses unique financial challenges faced by disadvantaged communities and aims to keep compliance costs manageable. (Source: Smart Cities Dive)
Energy News Network: Midwest study finds solar farms don’t hurt property values — and they may even boost them
Axios: New D.C. legislation wants to end hidden apartment utility fees
Canary Media: Michigan bets on EVs to revive its economy — and hopes jobs will follow
Digital
How this state is using telehealth to connect more mothers and children with healthy food. In Arkansas, telehealth is transforming how the state connects mothers and children with a nutritious diet through the WIC program. With only 13 dietitians available for nearly 65,000 participants, the Arkansas Department of Health is creating an online platform to facilitate virtual consultations for nutritional education. This initiative aims to enhance access for rural families, allowing them to receive vital support conveniently. Learn more about how Arkansas is leveraging technology to improve maternal and child health outcomes. (Source: Route Fifty)
Engadget: California Gov. Newsom vetoes bill SB 1047 that aims to prevent AI disasters
GovTech: AI Is in ‘Productivity Phase’ as CIOs Mull Environmental Impact
TechCrunch: Direct ocean capture may be the next frontier for carbon removal
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