New York City is taking an integrative approach to environmental justice (EJ) to address disproportionate environmental, climate, and health impacts on low-income communities and communities of color. Join us for a discussion of the necessary and comprehensive shifts in City and State decision-making, and how these shifts will influence the way we design and live in our cities.

New York City’s EJ laws, including Local Law 60 and Local Law 64, are guiding the establishment of an EJ Advisory Board and completion of an Environmental Justice for All Report. This data-driven report will inform an EJ Plan, incorporating key concerns and initiatives identified by the report into all aspects of the City’s decision-making and planning. In addition, the State’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act outlines prioritization of disadvantaged and low-to-moderate income communities.

Please join us, in person or virtually, for a discussion with policy experts about how environmental justice considerations will impact decision-making and planning across the City, particularly with respect to our built environment. Our speakers will provide an overview of New York City’s environmental justice policy, followed by a discussion of why energy efficiency and decarbonization efforts should be prioritized for EJ neighborhoods, and strategies for incorporating environmental justice into future planning.

Moderator
Rory Christian, Commissioner, New York State Public Service Commission

Panelists
Adriana Espinoza, Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice, NYC Mayor’s Office of Climate Policy
Jasmine Graham, Energy Justice Policy Manager, WE ACT for Environmental Justice
Jamal Lewis, Director of Climate, Energy and Health, Green & Healthy Homes Initiative
Casey Weston, Environmental Policy Analyst, NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

This is a hybrid in-person/online event. Space is limited. Masks and full COVID-19 vaccination are required for in person attendance. If joining in-person, you will be asked upon entry to show your in-person ticket and proof of full COVID-19 vaccination (via Excelsior Pass or other proof of vaccination). Virtual attendance to this event is also available – you may choose to join and participate via Zoom webinar.

Our Climate Mobilization Act series is made possible through the generous support of the New York City Mayor’s Office of Climate & Sustainability and the Natural Resources Defense Council.