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Tenants may soon have a right to air conditioning in New York City
A New York City councilman is introducing a bill to require landlords to provide air conditioning to tenants during the summer to prevent heat-related illnesses.
In short:
- Councilman Lincoln Restler's bill mandates landlords to install and maintain air conditioning units, with fines for noncompliance.
- Each summer, around 350 New Yorkers die from heat-related illnesses, with Black residents disproportionately affected.
- The bill aims to address climate change challenges and ensure safe housing standards, similar to winter heating requirements.
Key quote:
“This will save lives as we reckon with the challenges of the climate crisis.”
— Councilman Lincoln Restler, Brooklyn
Why this matters:
As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of heat waves, access to air conditioning becomes crucial for preventing heat-related deaths and ensuring safe living conditions, especially for vulnerable populations.
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Some US cities are promoting themselves as climate refuges despite concerns
Climate change is prompting some cities to market themselves as safe havens from extreme weather, but experts question their ability to truly offer protection.
In short:
- Buffalo, New York, markets itself as a "climate refuge" due to its moderate climate and low risk of extreme weather events.
- Other cities like Duluth and Ann Arbor are also positioning themselves as climate havens to attract residents fleeing harsher climates.
- Experts warn that no city is immune to climate change and stress the need for adaptation and infrastructure investment.
Key quote:
"I'm not saying climate change is going to be good for Buffalo, or Buffalo is going to be an oasis. We’re not an oasis, we suck less.”
— Stephen Vermette, professor of geography at Buffalo State University.
Why this matters:
As climate change worsens, more areas will become uninhabitable, pushing people to relocate. Marketing certain cities as climate havens could strain their resources and infrastructure, potentially leading to new challenges in those areas.
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States seek to add health warning labels to gas stoves
California, New York, and Illinois are considering laws to require health warning labels on gas stoves, highlighting their potential risks.
In short:
- Proposed bills in California, New York, and Illinois aim to inform consumers that gas stoves can emit harmful pollutants linked to health issues.
- Appliance manufacturers argue that the warnings are exaggerated and politically motivated, pushing back against the legislation.
- Some Democrats are skeptical about the evidence and impact, suggesting comprehensive programs over labeling.
Key quote:
"We’re not banning gas stoves. We’re just basically requiring them to be labeled, warning people about how to best use them with good ventilation.”
— Gail Pellerin, California Assemblymember
Why this matters:
Health experts are sounding the alarm about pollutants released by gas stoves, which they say can worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma, particularly in children. The issue revolves around the combustion of natural gas, which releases nitrogen dioxide and other harmful pollutants into the air. These emissions can contribute to indoor air pollution levels that exceed those found outdoors, even in heavily trafficked urban areas.
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New York's halt on congestion pricing impacts nationwide efforts
New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s decision to pause Manhattan’s congestion pricing plan may stall similar initiatives across the country.
In short:
- Governor Hochul announced an indefinite pause on the $15 congestion charge for Manhattan, citing unintended consequences.
- The Metropolitan Transportation Authority loses over $1 billion in anticipated funding, affecting public transportation improvements.
- Other cities like Portland, Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles were closely monitoring New York’s plan to shape their own policies.
Key quote:
“The Governor’s reckless decision to effectively kill congestion pricing in New York City — and every other city in America that is considering following New York’s example — is a staggering error.”
— Liz Krueger, Democratic state senator
Why this matters:
The pause in New York’s plan could embolden opposition groups in other cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Seattle, where congestion pricing discussions are underway. These cities are watching New York closely, as its success or failure could serve as a blueprint for their own traffic management and environmental efforts.
Related EHN coverage:
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New York's congestion pricing delay highlights American transportation challenges
New York City's plan to implement congestion pricing, a strategy to reduce traffic and fund public transit, remains stalled years after approval.
In short:
- New York City approved congestion pricing five years ago to curb traffic and lower emissions in Manhattan.
- The plan aimed to charge vehicles entering Manhattan's central business district to discourage unnecessary driving.
- Despite potential environmental and traffic benefits, the plan has faced significant delays and has not yet been implemented.
Why this matters:
Congestion pricing could significantly reduce traffic and pollution in densely populated areas, offering a model for other cities. Each year of delay means more cars on the road, more emissions, and missed opportunities to make significant strides toward a greener, more efficient transportation system.
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New York state considers cutting ties with major oil companies
New York State is on the brink of divesting over $1 billion from major oil companies, marking a significant move in fossil fuel divestment.
In short:
- New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli is reviewing the state's pension fund investments in big oil companies like Exxon and Chevron.
- The state's pension fund, one of the largest in the U.S., has already limited investments in coal firms and smaller oil companies.
- This decision could set a precedent for other large institutions in addressing climate change through financial strategies.
Key quote:
"The idea that over a decade into this fight we’re having an argument, in an overwhelmingly Democratic state, over whether Exxon or Shell or Chevron are doing a good job on climate is sort of baffling."
— Mark Dunlea, chair of the Green Education and Legal Fund
Why this matters:
New York's potential divestment from big oil highlights the growing recognition of the financial risks associated with climate change and the role of institutional investors in driving sustainable practices.
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Photo by Jay Wennington on Unsplash
From London to New York: Can quitting cars be popular?
Cities around the world reveal surprising truths about getting the public on board with cutting car-use.
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