Waterfront Conference 2023

Meeting the goal of reducing carbon dioxide equivalent emissions to 80% below their 2006 levels by 2050 is an important, yet difficult accomplishment. From setting aggressive clean energy commitments to enhancing support for solar and offshore wind, creating unprecedented cross-jurisdictional cooperation, and centering the state’s most vulnerable communities, New Jersey is taking bold action to address climate change. This panel will explore the state’s recent mitigation commitments, policies, and investments and how these can be a model for the rest of the country.

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.