Johanna Carmona for Climate Change
Recognizing that climate change poses a grave threat to our health, our economy, and our planet, I am determined to champion policies that promote resilience, sustainability, and equitable access to green spaces and resources. My vision for tackling climate change is to build a green economy that benefits all New Yorkers while addressing the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
My approach to climate action is rooted in the understanding that environmental issues are intrinsically linked to social and economic justice. I envision a New York where environmental sustainability is not a luxury, but a standard that underpins every aspect of our urban environment. By transforming our city into a leader in green technology, renewable energy, and sustainable practices, we can create a healthier, more livable city for future generations. Together, we can combat climate change with solutions that are innovative, inclusive, and informed by the needs and aspirations of our diverse communities.
Reducing Emissions and Promoting Renewable Energy
The fight against climate change begins with a commitment to drastically reduce our carbon footprint and transition to 100% renewable energy sources. My policies prioritize:
Investing in Renewable Energy: Supporting solar, offshore wind, and hydroelectric projects to move our power grid away from fossil fuels.
Enhancing Public Transit: Expanding and improving public transportation options to reduce dependency on personal vehicles, thereby cutting emissions and making our city more accessible.
Building Energy Efficiency: Mandating energy efficiency upgrades in buildings, which are responsible for a significant portion of our city's emissions, through incentives and regulations that encourage green retrofitting and the use of sustainable materials in construction.
Environmental Justice and Equity
I believe that climate action must also be an instrument of social justice. Historically marginalized communities are often the most affected by environmental degradation and climate change, yet they have the least access to green spaces and clean air. My policy framework includes:
Creating Green Jobs: Developing green infrastructure projects that offer good-paying, stable jobs, prioritizing hiring from within local communities.
Expanding Access to Green Spaces: Investing in the creation and maintenance of parks and community gardens, particularly in underserved neighborhoods, to ensure all New Yorkers can enjoy the benefits of nature.
Addressing Health Disparities: Implementing measures to improve air and water quality in pollution-burdened communities, reducing the health impacts associated with environmental injustice.
Achieving our climate goals requires the collective effort of government, private sector, non-profits, and community members. As your representative, I will encourage collaboration between the city, state, and private companies to finance and implement sustainable projects and ensure community voices are heard in the planning and execution of climate policies through participatory decision-making processes.
As your advocate in Albany, I promise to fight for a future where our city leads by example in addressing climate change, creating a sustainable, just, and resilient New York. Together, we can turn the tide against climate change, ensuring a vibrant, healthy world for generations to come.