Five Democratic candidates in the New York mayoral race gathered at a forum to discuss their green credentials and environmental initiatives, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and climate action. The event, organized by New York Communities for Change and 30 other environmental organizations, brought together candidates like current New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, former comptroller Scott Stringer, New York state Sens. Zellnor Myrie and Jessica Ramos, and New York State Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani.
Diving into the heart of the matter, the candidates engaged in a discussion about shutting down a controversial gas power plant in Brooklyn, funding composting programs, and divesting the city’s pension funds from fossil fuel investments. Despite the absence of front-runners Mayor Eric Adams and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, the forum was filled with energy and urgency as candidates addressed pressing environmental issues facing the city.
Commitment to Climate Action
One of the key points of discussion during the forum was the candidates’ pledge to eliminate “loopholes” in Local Law 97, a city law aimed at reducing emissions from buildings. With over a third of the city’s emissions coming from buildings, particularly heating systems in residential multi-family housing, the candidates emphasized the importance of enforcing emission reductions to move towards a net-zero future by 2050.
Notably, all candidates voiced their support for affordable housing initiatives and transitioning away from fossil fuels in housing developments. Brad Lander, in his role as comptroller, has advocated for a green affordable housing fund and proposed limitations on Renewable Energy Credits for building emissions. The conversation also touched on the Iroquois pipeline, highlighting the candidates’ opposition to its expansion and the potential increase in greenhouse gas emissions it could bring.
Renewable Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure
In addition to addressing emissions from buildings, the candidates tackled the issue of renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure in the city. Zohran Mamdani, a vocal advocate for renewable energy, played a key role in halting the construction of a fracked gas plant in Astoria and sponsored the Clean Futures Act to ban new fracked gas power plants across the state.
The forum also delved into the importance of public transportation and the need to improve the city’s bus system. Candidates expressed support for enhancing public transit, with Mamdani highlighting the success of a fare-free bus pilot that increased ridership significantly. By emphasizing the role of public transit in combating the climate crisis, the candidates underscored the connection between sustainable transportation and environmental sustainability.
Financial Divestment and Environmental Justice
Another critical aspect of the discussion revolved around divesting the city’s pension funds from fossil fuel investments. Scott Stringer, along with former Mayor Bill De Blasio, led efforts to divest nearly $3 billion from fossil fuel companies, setting a precedent for environmental stewardship in financial decisions. Brad Lander’s proactive approach to divestment from oil and gas investments demonstrated a commitment to aligning financial practices with climate goals.
The forum also addressed the decommissioning of fossil fuel infrastructure, such as the National Grid’s Greenpoint Energy Center, with candidates pledging to close down such facilities. The conversation extended to environmental justice issues, including the closure of the prison on Rikers Island and the allocation of funding for parks and green spaces in underserved communities.
As the candidates articulated their visions for a sustainable and equitable future for New York City, they resonated with environmentally conscious residents and advocacy groups. The forum not only highlighted the candidates’ green credentials but also underscored the pressing need for bold climate action and environmental leadership in the city. Through their commitments to renewable energy, emissions reductions, and sustainable infrastructure, the candidates demonstrated a shared sense of urgency and responsibility in addressing the climate crisis.
