As New York City enters a new chapter, conversations around climate resilience, sustainable housing and green infrastructure are taking center stage. Lara Croushore, Head of Climate at SecondMuse, spoke with Inside Climate News on the importance of moving beyond new fossil fuel infrastructure and ensuring affordable housing built to withstand the impacts of climate change.
Lara offers a clear stance on the city’s energy future. Responding to discussions about expanding fossil fuel capacity, she noted, “We really don’t need it,” underscoring that New York can meet its long-term energy needs through renewable power, improved efficiency, and modernized infrastructure.
Housing policy also remains central. Voters recently approved three zoning proposals aimed at increasing and accelerating the development of new homes across the five boroughs. While supportive of the push for more affordable housing, Lara stresses that these new units must be built sustainably and designed to be resilient to climate impacts, particularly as flood risks rise in many neighborhoods due to stronger storms and increased rainfall.
With experience shaping citywide climate strategy and now as the Head of Climate at SecondMuse, Lara underscores the need for integrated approaches that connect housing expansion with resilience and clean-energy goals. She sees this transition as a pivotal opportunity for New York to broaden affordability while protecting communities most vulnerable to the accelerating effects of climate change.
