Everyone loves a good Ted Talk:
With the majority of the world’s population living in cities, city mayors are in a unique position to address the effects of climate change. In this TED Talk, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti talks about his efforts to address climate change and inequality in his city during the global pandemic.
Along with mayors from 40 megacities around the world, Mayor Garcetti is using this moment -- of facing a global pandemic with growing concerns about inequality -- to build a strong economy and future for decades to come.
With the economy in a slump, this is the moment to build back green, he says. There will be no recovery unless it is a green recovery that produces a sustainable, fair economy. For example, during COVID-19, streets have been shut down from cars to accommodate more pedestrians and outdoor dining. Now that people have experienced cleaner air and less congested streets, this is the time to build back in a better way.
Los Angeles is addressing climate change in three main areas: transportation, buildings, and energy. For example, the Mayor is investing in electric vehicles including city buses and vehicles, making sure buildings are greener, and supporting clean electricity. An inclusive green new deal would address all of these issues, as well as equity issues such as providing adequate shade from trees in the city’s heat zones.
The mega industries of tomorrow are green industries, according to the Mayor. His advice: don’t be late to the party or you’ll be left behind.