New York City’s Roadmap to 80 x 50: An Integrated Response

In One New York: the Plan for a Strong and Just City, New York City committed to an ambitious goal to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 80 percent below 2005 levels by the year 2050 (80 x 50).

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While the city has already achieved a 14 percent reduction in GHG emissions since 2005 levels, achieving the 80 x 50 goal will require a far-reaching, integrated response from players across the city and region.

Buro Happold led a team of experts working closely with the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability, City agencies, and other stakeholders to conduct ground-breaking analysis across energy supply, buildings, transportation, and waste and develop a set of strategies that will result in an 80 percent reduction in GHG emissions. Building on existing City commitments and initiatives, this report, “New York City’s Roadmap to 80 by 50,” uses findings from comprehensive modeling to inform the pace and extent of the necessary transition to more energy efficient buildings and vehicles, replacement of many fossil fuel-based heating and hot water systems in buildings with renewable or high efficiency electric systems, a renewables-based electric grid, significantly reduced number of miles driven, electric and clean fuel vehicles, and zero waste to landfills. The technologies necessary to shift away from fossil fuels and reduce waste-related emissions exist today. However, bold action is necessary from all levels of government and the private sector to make the investments, develop new regulatory frameworks, and drive institutional and societal changes necessary to achieve 80 x 50.

In addition to working with New York, Buro Happold is working with other cities across the globe to analyze, plan, design, and implement projects to achieve deeper greenhouse gas emissions reductions.