HC3 Findings: NYC Clean Heat Program, driven by The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority, has successfully transformed the city's energy landscape by eliminating heavy heating oils and significantly reducing PM2.5 emissions. The DEP Boiler Registration and Greener, Greater Buildings Plan further contribute to monitoring and improving environmental performance in buildings, emphasizing transparency and providing support for compliance. The city's efforts to transition to clean heating fuels, including the promotion of technologies like air and ground source pumps and the implementation of the Utility Rebate Program, demonstrate a commitment to achieving a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions and sourcing 70% of electricity from clean renewable energy by 2030. These initiatives collectively reflect New York's dedication to sustainability, environmental health, and a greener urban future.
HC4 Findings: New York City faces a challenging legal scenario with ambitious CO2 reduction targets of 40% by 2030 and 80% by 2050. Enacted through the Climate Mobilization Act, specifically under Local Law 97, the city's efforts are scrutinized, revealing varying progress among boroughs. The Bronx, in particular, lags behind with only a 7% decrease in emissions, presenting economic challenges for updating older buildings. The Department of Education contributes positively, achieving a 14% decline across all boroughs. The city must prioritize investment in boroughs like the Bronx, Queens, and Brooklyn to meet its net-zero goal by 2050. Additionally, worsening traffic congestion, notably in the South Bronx neighborhoods of Mott Haven and Port Morris, contributes to emissions and negatively impacts children's health. Overall, the city grapples with emission reduction strategies in various sectors, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive interventions.
HC7 and HC8 Results: We notice that the "average building age" of most buildings in the Bronx is 1929. This is a huge contribution to the health of the children and elderly living in certain parts like Melrose or Mott Haven, since they are at increased chances of getting asthma. The materials used in the buildings are also extremely old, and most likely spread cancer-causing or gaseous air throughout the borough.
Number 4 and 6 fuels are derived from petroleum, and are used all throughout heating system engines in the borough. With number 4 being the oil of higher usage, it greatly contributes to the ongoing chemical and air pollution within the Bronx. As shown in our group's HC3, "In NYC, these oils were identified as significant contributors to pollution, being responsible for 86% of soot pollution despite being used in only 1% of buildings." This thereby elucidates the fact that oils 4 & 6 are heavy contributors to pollution, and they are both used.