Local Law 97, also known as the Climate Mobilization Act, is a policy enacted by New York City in 2019 with the aim of building climate resilience and mitigating the impacts of climate change. The law establishes emissions limits for buildings over a certain size and sets forth a framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. The role of Local Law 97 in building climate resilience for New York City is multi-faceted and encompasses several key aspects.
Reducing Climate Risks
Local Law 97 sets ambitious emissions reduction targets for buildings in New York City, which is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the city. The law mandates that buildings larger than 25,000 square feet must reduce their carbon emissions by a certain percentage by 2024, with increasingly stricter targets in subsequent years. By reducing emissions, Local Law 97 Nyc aims to lower the overall contribution of buildings to climate change, which in turn can help to mitigate the risks associated with climate change impacts such as extreme weather events, sea level rise, and heatwaves. By decreasing the city's carbon footprint, Local Law 97 can help to build climate resilience by reducing the magnitude and severity of climate risks faced by New York City.
Improving Building Performance during Extreme Weather Events
Local Law 97 also addresses the issue of building performance during extreme weather events, which are projected to become more frequent and severe due to climate change. The law mandates that buildings must meet certain performance standards during extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, hurricanes, and floods. For example, buildings are required to have backup power systems to ensure their operational resilience during power outages, which can occur during extreme weather events. Additionally, buildings must meet certain insulation and energy efficiency requirements to reduce their vulnerability to extreme temperatures and weather conditions. By improving building performance during extreme weather events, Local Law 97 aims to enhance the resilience of buildings and their occupants, as well as critical infrastructure, to climate change impacts.
Building a More Sustainable Future
Local Law 97 also aims to promote sustainability in the long term by encouraging the adoption of renewable energy sources and promoting energy efficiency in buildings. The law establishes a market-based approach, wherein building owners can either reduce their emissions through building upgrades, adopt renewable energy sources, or purchase carbon credits from other sources. This market-based mechanism incentivizes building owners to invest in renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies, which can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve building performance, and promote a more sustainable future for New York City. By transitioning to cleaner and more efficient energy sources, Local Law 97 can contribute to building a more sustainable and resilient city that is better equipped to cope with the challenges of climate change.
Summary
Local Law 97 plays a significant role in building climate resilience for New York City by reducing climate risks, improving building performance during extreme weather events, and promoting a more sustainable future. Through its emissions reduction targets, building performance standards, and market-based mechanisms, Local Law 97 aims to mitigate the impacts of climate change, enhance the resilience of buildings and their occupants, and promote sustainability in the long term. By implementing and enforcing Local Law 97, New York City is taking proactive measures to address the challenges of climate change and build a more resilient and sustainable urban environment.
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