This Earth Day, we’re proud to share the innovative sustainability insights our CityZen Analyst Team unearthed in our Data Platform.
Infrastructure development has the power to transform our world for the better. Let’s harness data to build sustainably, with resilience and respect for the planet.
Check out some previous insights our team found and shared with clients back in 2020:
San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, CA – Electric Vehicle (EV) Initiatives
Mackenzie Mailhot
Data Associate II
How does this project impact the environment?
Many cities, counties and transit authorities are transitioning their public fleets and transit vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs), either hybrid or fully-electric (ZEVs). This transition will help to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions produced by the entity, as the associated charging infrastructure for the vehicles can be powered by more renewable sources of energy, such as solar, hydroelectric or wind.
How will the project benefit the local community and its surrounding areas?
The transition to ZEVs will help reduce the production of carbon tailpipe emissions which will improve air quality, especially in larger cities and population-dense areas. Electric vehicles are also much quieter than gasoline vehicles, and will reduce noise pollution around roads and highways, making for a more enjoyable and relaxing community!
Why do you think this project is important?
When entities take the first step in transitioning their fleet to electric and installing charging infrastructure in their jurisdictions, they are setting the example for everyday drivers. When charging infrastructure is made available (whether that be on public property or along highways), more people will feel comfortable transitioning their personal vehicles to electric as well. And that is a good step that city officials can undertake to make a tangible difference in combating climate change.
NY Power Authority – Electrical Distribution and Transmission Initiatives
Frederico Bignami López De Prado
Data Associate I
How does this project impact the environment?
This project affects the environment in two notable ways. First, it is centered on offshore wind energy, a green and renewable energy source. Second, and perhaps more importantly, the project’s main goal is optimizing the usage and distribution of green energy that is already being generated in the state of New York. By increasing the green energy usage and energy distribution efficiency, the project contributes significantly to an overall reduction in the carbon footprint of the State.
How will the project benefit the local community and its surrounding areas?
The project benefits the surrounding community by improving energy accessibility for consumers. It establishes transmission capacity to deliver a minimum of 3,000 MW from offshore wind projects, which aligns with the state’s goal of reaching 9,000 MW of offshore wind energy by 2035. Moreover, the project enhances operational flexibility under diverse conditions, ensuring reliable and efficient energy delivery to the community.
Why do you think this project is important?
I believe making efficient usage of wind energy and other renewable sources to be a pivotal effort in the upcoming decades to reduce the overall carbon footprint of our energy matrix while creating an energy portfolio that is both resilient and sustainable.
Decarbonization and Electrification of
Public Facilities – City of Issaquah, WA
Anastasia Ejov
Data Associate I
How does this project impact the environment?
This project aims to significantly reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from City-owned buildings in Issaquah by implementing energy efficiency and decarbonization upgrades.
How will the project benefit the local community and its surrounding areas?
By aligning with the Issaquah Climate Action Plan’s targets, including a 25% reduction in energy use by 2030, translating into tangible cost savings for municipalities, fostering fiscal responsibility and enabling resources to be redirected towards other critical services or sustainability initiatives.
Why do you think this project is important?
The energy sector is responsible for the largest contribution to GHG emissions. By decreasing reliance on fossil fuels and transitioning to cleaner energy sources, Cities, as key players in addressing climate change, can demonstrate proactive steps to power net zero climate goals and inspire wider adoption of sustainable practices globally.
The project not only aligns with environmental stewardship goals but also enhances the sustainability and resilience of the surrounding communities.
Invasive Species Management Plan – Town of Oakville, ON
Wacey Schell
Data Operations Team Lead
How does this project impact the environment?
The project aims to address the threat posed by invasive species to native biodiversity, specifically in Oakville’s woodlands.
How will the project benefit the local community and its surrounding areas?
The project will benefit the local community by restoring and preserving the natural balance of local ecosystems, and by doing so, protecting the quality of urban forests and preserving native habitats.
Why do you think this project is important?
This project is important because it protects native biodiversity by proactively addressing the significant management challenge posed by invasive species. By implementing a strategic management plan, Oakville can minimize the costly impacts of invasive species on native biodiversity and safeguard the integrity of its woodlands for future generations.
You can also check out our insights from Earth Day 2023