By 2030, there will likely be more than 9 million people living in New York City. In that time, if we do nothing, our infrastructure that supports vibrant city life will get older, our air and water will become dirtier, and our environment will become increasingly unsustainable. That’s why we need smart, long-term investments in our infrastructure, including more affordable housing and projects to green our City.

Sustainability is not only an environmental necessity. Building a green and efficient New York City will also contribute significantly to growing a robust green economy and creating new green jobs. That’s why we need to work harder than ever at the federal level to make the right investments and provide needed support, whether it’s upgrading our water system, improving our parks, waterfronts, and open space, or making sure our buildings are energy efficient.

Building a sustainable New York is a herculean task that will require the efforts and cooperation of all levels of government. Congress has a real responsibility to reward and support localities like New York City that are way out ahead on the issue of sustainability. In Congress, I will make this responsibility a top priority.