MICRO CARGO WARS: A BETTER APPROACH TO DELIVERY
09.25.24 NOON

Nearly 90% of New York City's goods are transported by truck, leading to increased congestion and raising environmental and safety concerns. NYC's burgeoning micro cargo sector presents a viable solution, with deliveries jumping from 2.4 million to 3.6 million packages in two years, effectively reducing truck traffic and enhancing urban living. Expanding micro cargo operations could further cut pollution, improve road safety, and stimulate economic growth by revitalizing vacant office spaces. Previously trailing European cities in urban logistics, NYC is now rapidly catching up, with major industry players like Fernhay, Dutch-X, EAV, Civilized Cycles, and NYC Hub driving this transformation.

NYC NEEDS MORE THAN CITIBIKE
10.02.24 NOON

Expanding biking infrastructure is crucial for achieving a carbon zero district in NYC. The enhancement of the city's bike network, especially when integrated with public transit, promises significant reductions in carbon emissions. Transforming areas like the Financial District into bike-friendly zones is pivotal for a sustainable city. However, NYC Comptroller Lander has highlighted risks associated with shifting CitiBike ownership from Lyft and rising maintenance costs that could destabilize the service. In response, Urban Hubs are devising long-term strategies, such as expanding CitiBike facilities and introducing alternative surface transit solutions to counter climate-related subway disruptions.

TRANSFORMING FIDI INTO A CARBON ZERO NEIGHBORHOOD
10.09.24 NOON

This event will focus on transforming the Financial District into a carbon zero district through participatory planning and innovative design. Topics include converting rooftops to green spaces equipped with solar panels and vegetation to cut heat and produce renewable energy. We'll reimagine parks and public areas with native plants and sustainable materials to boost biodiversity and air quality. Streets will be selectively pedestrianized to enhance adjacent property values, and integrated bike lanes will feature charging stations. The use of new narrow quad vehicles for package delivery will be discussed. The session will also explore the potential for rapid replication in global cities and develop a practical framework to implement these changes.

TURNING FIDI BUILDING STOCK CARBON ZERO
10.16.24 NOON

Meeting global targets for reducing greenhouse gases is unattainable if we focus solely on new buildings. Over 70% of existing buildings today will still be in use by 2050. Retrofitting can cut carbon emissions by 50-75% compared to new construction. Buildings are responsible for 39% of global energy-related carbon emissions, with 11% from materials and construction and 28% from operations, according to the World Economic Forum. Experts will discuss retrofitting technologies, energy efficiency upgrades, and renewable energy integration that significantly reduce emissions. Participants will review case studies, explore financing models, and learn about supporting policies and incentives.

PROVIDING FOOD FOR AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE
10.23.24 NOON

Climate change poses a significant threat to New York City's food security, underscoring the urgent need for resilient, self-sufficient food systems. Rising temperatures, extreme weather, and water shortages, especially in key regions like California, challenge the city’s reliance on distant supply chains, potentially leading to higher prices and shortages of fresh produce. This roundtable will delve into innovative solutions such as urban farming, rooftop gardens, and vertical agriculture to foster sustainable, local supply networks. These strategies aim to reduce dependency on external sources, ensuring the city's access to affordable, nutritious food and building a more resilient future. Additionally, the discussion will address current challenges in urban agriculture and outline a strategic plan for advancement.

URBAN WATER REVOLUTION FOR ONCOMING CLIMATE CHANGE
10.30.24 NOON

While NYC has traditionally relied on a plentiful water supply from upstate reservoirs, increasing droughts and unpredictable rainfall could challenge this system. Climate change may decrease or destabilize rainfall in watershed areas, risking periods of water scarcity. Additionally, the city's aging infrastructure may struggle to meet rising demand and adapt to these changes.

On the opposite end, NYC is at high risk of flooding due to rising sea levels, storm surges, and more intense storms like Hurricane Sandy. These events can lead to both coastal flooding and overwhelming rainfall, putting pressure on the city’s drainage and sewer systems, resulting in significant damage to infrastructure and disruption of daily life. 

CLEANING UP THE NEIGHBORHOOD
11.06.24 NOON

A roundtable on New York City's garbage issue brings together city planners, waste management experts, environmental advocates, and community leaders to explore innovative solutions for the city’s mounting waste challenges. Participants discuss sustainable strategies, such as enhancing recycling programs, improving waste-to-energy initiatives, and reducing single-use plastics. The conversation also focuses on equitable approaches to waste management, ensuring that underserved neighborhoods aren’t disproportionately affected by waste collection and processing sites. By fostering collaboration across sectors, the roundtable aims to create a cleaner, more efficient waste management system that aligns with the city’s environmental and public health goals.