emss's Profile

Hmmm. As a Vermont native who has lived in NYC for 15 yrs, I have to disagree with the premise that New Yorkers' disconnection from nature makes us particularly vulnerable to disrespecting the planet. Its my observation that the more land people have around them, the more wasteful they are, because their impact seems so insignificant, and the natural resources seem so great. Thus the anti-environmental political stance in parts of the country with the most wide open space. And why we are far behind the more densely populated Europe when it comes to protecting our environment.

I believe there is the political will in NYC to make serious change. But it will take time, determination, and it will be expensive (which may impact our city's low-income population in negative ways). Bloomberg is taking the first steps, through green building incentive programs, etc. he plans to cut the city's carbon emissions by 30%. Many of our buildings are old and need serious revamping to increase efficiency - buildings making up 75% of the city's emissions.

There are many exciting programs happening already. And green building is happening. And things will change. It won't be easy, cheap, or quick. But I believe in New Yorkers. Our values are right in line with this change - and as a city we have the resources financial and otherwise to make it happen.