From offshore wind investments to flood risk disclosure laws and climate education mandates, New Jersey is leading the nation’s response to climate change. This panel examines the state’s recent laws, policies, and investments, and discusses what it means both for the future of the state and as a model for the rest of the country. What are the political and environmental reasons for New Jersey’s progress? What was the role of the advocacy community and what must be done to maintain and grow commitments? Is New Jersey a catalyst for national standards and how do we grow momentum?
Plastic use has increased dramatically over the past twenty years. The United States is one of the world's largest consumers of plastics and produces more plastic waste than any other country. Plastic bag bans in New York and New Jersey are steps in the right direction, but more is required at the local, state, and federal levels to tackle this monumental issue. This panel will discuss the problems and solutions at the local level and explore efforts from around the nation and the world that can serve as examples of a path toward comprehensive regional solutions.
The bivalve we hear the least about is the mighty mussel, a filter feeder competing with the oyster for the charismatic spotlight in the quest to restore the New York–New Jersey harbor. While the oyster is a major and important player, mussels also provide great ecological benefits and could be put to the great harbor restoration task. This panel looks at the opportunity for mussels as a major part of restoration initiatives and the research currently underway.
