Climate Mitigation and Adaption Strategies in NYC
Overview
Critically examining the OneNYC 2050 plan and developing actionable mitigation and adaption strategies that could be easily integrated into the plan. After studying the New York City Climate Action Plan and reviewing plans of other cities, I developed two solutions. Here, the brief was get inspired and adapt solutions rather than to reinvent the wheel.
Mitigation Strategy: Bus stops as micro hubs to fight extreme heat
Current issue:
Extreme heat caused by global warming coupled with urban heat island effect are posing to be dangerous to human health, especially among the most vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with low incomes or preexisting medical conditions.
Solution:
Reimagining bus stops as micro hubs adapting to climate change by retrofitting bus stops with spraying mists, and green roofs will be a creative solution to adapt to climate change.
Illustrated by me
Note: My project was submitted on February 2023. In August 2023, New York City announced that it would install green roofs on bus stops. A complete coincidence! You can read the article here.
Adaption Strategy: Creating Low Emission Zones
Current issue:
The transportation sector in New York City contributes over 15% of greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from personal and commercial vehicles. Conventional fossil-fuel automobiles emit harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and carbon dioxide, leading to air pollution and associated health problems such as respiratory issues and heart disease. Additionally, vehicle noise pollution affects both humans and the local wildlife.
Solution:
Establishing Low Emission Zones (LEZs) in the city to restrict access to vehicles that emit high levels of pollutants. Areas defined for LEZs will include busy city center, and the restriction of vehicles will be based on the type of vehicle and the emission standard. Vehicles that do not meet the required emission standards will not be allowed to enter the LEZ and may be subject to fines or other penalties. To enforce the restrictions, a combination of physical barriers, cameras, and automatic number plate recognition systems can be used to monitor and control access.