Press Releases

State of the City Commitment Will Grow City’s Green Economy, Train and Position New Yorkers to Benefit from Nearly 400,000 Green-Collar Jobs by 2040

Plan Will Advance $100 Million Climate Innovation Hub at Brooklyn Army Terminal, Create More Than 12,000 Green Economy Apprenticeships by 2040

Climate Collaborative Across Brooklyn Army Terminal, Governors Island, Brooklyn Navy Yard to Deliver 6-Million-Square-Feet for Climate Education, Research, Commercialization, and Training

NEW YORK, NY—New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President and CEO Andrew Kimball, and Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development (NYCTalent) Executive Director Abby Jo Sigal today announced the release of the Green Economy Action Plan—a first-of-its-kind plan that lays out a roadmap to growing the city’s green economy. The plan invests in jobs and sectors that will help the city combat climate change, and train and position New Yorkers—particularly those from environmentally-disadvantaged communities—to benefit from the nearly 400,000 projected ‘green-collar’ jobs in New York City by 2040.

Critical to this plan is the creation of a new “Climate Innovation Hub” at the Brooklyn Army Terminal, which will help grow green technology startups and businesses, and which will be joined together with the Trust for Governors Island and the Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation to create a green economy ecosystem across three campuses that will support 5,000 new permanent jobs, educate and train 2,100 New Yorkers, and generate $55 billion of economic impact. The Green Economy Action Plan delivers on another promise in Mayor Adams’ State of the City address, and builds on his commitment to invest in future-focused industries and create a “Harbor of the Future” with job and innovation hubs along the East River.

“Our city didn’t recover the nearly 1 million jobs we lost during the pandemic and reach a new private-sector job high by looking backward—we did it by building an economy of the future. And we must draw on all our resources to protect our city from the effects of climate change,” said Mayor Adams. “From building resiliency projects and retrofitting apartment buildings, to installing solar panels, EV charging stations, and wind turbines, ‘green-collar’ jobs are already in demand and leading the way. Our Green Economy Action Plan will harness the growth of a new kind of industrial revolution and give New Yorkers the tools they need to build a resilient and prosperous city and thrive in our future-focused economy.”

The Green Economy Action Plan delivers the first forecasting of New York City’s green economy and job growth through 2040. New York City’s green economy will host nearly 400,000 jobs by 2040—up from 133,000 today—as it becomes the anchor of a prosperous, equitable, and just future for New Yorkers, while it simultaneously advances the city’s ambitious goals to reduce the city’s threats due to climate change. The plan identifies key occupations that are essential to growing the green economy and highlights 21 occupations that provide pathways to economic mobility, many of which do not require higher education degrees.

Highlights of the plan include:

• Establishing a Climate Innovation Hub: NYCEDC will invest up to $100 million to develop a Climate Innovation Hub at the Brooklyn Army Terminal. This new space will accelerate commercialization pathways for climate tech startups and other green economy businesses. It will serve 150 startups over 10 years—generating $2.6 billion in economic impact and creating 600 jobs—while providing local workforce training and job placement, particularly for the local Sunset Park community.

• Creating Green Training Facilities in Every Borough: NYCTalent—in partnership with other city agencies, as well as private partners—will develop a workforce training facility in every borough with programming to train New Yorkers for green-collar jobs. The plan will deliver more than 12,000 green economy apprenticeships by 2040 through efforts such as a green building and construction workforce pilot program on Governors Island to train more than 100 people per year for the first two years.

• Activating a Harbor Climate Collaborative: The Brooklyn Navy Yard, NYCEDC, and the Trust for Governors Island are collectively investing $725 million to build a green economy ecosystem across 6-million-square-feet and 72 acres linked by NYC Ferry across New York Harbor. The collaborative will catalyze climate education, research, innovation, commercialization, and workforce development alongside partners from the private and nonprofit sectors. This work will build on a strong foundation of green economy projects such as the 400,000-square-foot New York Climate Exchange, an academic and research consortium anchored by Stony Brook University on Governors Island, and the development of 5-million-square-feet of net-zero manufacturing space at the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

• Activating Public Sites for Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging: NYCEDC is activating two acres of land near JFK airport to create the largest EV charging facility in the city, with 65 public EV chargers including 12 rapid ones. The facility is currently estimated to charge 1,000 vehicles per year, with potential for growth depending on market demand. The Brooklyn Navy Yard is also installing over 80 EV chargers across its 300-acre campus, including infrastructure for commercial fleet charging and a dedicated public lot for neighboring residents. Together, these investments constitute some of the largest investments in EV infrastructure in outer borough job centers in New York City to date.

• Creating Tax Incentives for Battery Storage: NYCEDC will utilize New York City’s Industrial Development Agency tax incentives to activate 500 Megawatts (MW) of battery storage capacity and support other green economy uses. To date, the Industrial Development Agency has induced 200MW of storage capacity that is expected to come online in the coming years and generated nearly $500 million of private sector investment. Unlocking additional storage capacity will ultimately drive a stronger and more efficient renewable energy sector.

“The Green Economy Action Plan is an integrated talent and economic development strategy for the five boroughs and another example of the Adams administration's work connecting New Yorkers to family-sustaining jobs, spurring inclusive economic activity in high-growth sectors and marshaling a coordinated, citywide response to climate change,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic, and Workforce Development Maria Torres-Springer. “I am excited to be a part of this historic release and eager to join with New Yorkers, my colleagues in government, and partners in the private sector to create the world's most dynamic and equitable green ecosystem right here in New York.”

“Treating the climate change crisis with the urgency it requires doesn't just support our infrastructure but our economy too, with good, ‘green-collar’ jobs for New Yorkers with diverse educations and histories,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “As unusual weather events become all too usual, we all have a role to play in protecting our city. Our city is creating the framework so that everyone can get involved.”

“This first-of-its-kind plan lays out a series of commitments and strategies that will bolster economic growth, create thousands of jobs, encourage public-private partnerships, and ensure a just transition to a green economy that all New Yorkers can contribute to and benefit from,” said NYCEDC President & CEO Andrew Kimball. “There is no better location for innovation than at the historic Brooklyn Army Terminal, located on the waterfront in the heart of Sunset Park, which is turning into a center for clean tech innovation and manufacturing. Climate tech growth at the Brooklyn Army Terminal will be further catalyzed by the establishment of the Climate Innovation Hub and through a unique partnership with the Brooklyn Navy Yard and the Trust for Governors Island, known as the Harbor Climate Collaborative. Collectively, these three remarkable city assets, all connected by a short NYC Ferry ride, will be at the forefront of climate innovation, commercialization, and workforce development for decades to come.”

“By co-authoring the Green Economy Action Plan, we wrote the roadmap for an historic opportunity to tackle the climate crisis, create jobs, and drive economic mobility, while positioning New York City as a global leader in the green economy,” said NYCTalent Executive Director Sigal. “The plan represents the city’s commitment to concrete strategies to ensure that all New Yorkers contribute to and benefit from our city’s growth and prosperity.”

“The Brooklyn Navy Yard is proud to be an integral partner in making New York a global destination for climate adaptation and technology development and production, and to further build on the growing community of climate solutions companies already thriving at the Yard,” said Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation President and CEO Lindsay Greene. “New York City is uniquely positioned to take on this challenge, and through strategic investments in promising climate tech, we can benefit from the silver lining that is a flourishing green economy that propels New Yorkers into sustainable career paths.”

“Preparing our city for climate change will require transformative collaboration and opportunities to rapidly scale solutions that benefit all New Yorkers, and the Green Economy Action Plan outlines a necessary roadmap,” said Trust for Governors Island President and CEO Clare Newman. “Governors Island is an exciting platform for a growing ecosystem of partners, including the New York Climate Exchange, that are advancing research, education, training, and public programs, and we're proud to join our colleagues in furthering New York City 's role as a global leader in developing equitable solutions to climate change.”

“Reducing our contributions to climate change and building the infrastructure that will make us more resilient to extreme weather represents an historic opportunity to grow and broaden our economy and workforce,” said New York City Chief Climate Officer and New York City Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “As laid out in ‘PlaNYC,’ with the proper planning and guidance, we can help ensure that all New Yorkers are able to benefit from this once-in-a-generation opportunity.”

“As New York City makes historic investments in climate, it's imperative that we bring everyone along,” said Mayor’s Office of Climate & Environmental Justice Executive Director Elijah Hutchinson. “Environmental justice and workforce champions know that we now have to do the hard work of making these job opportunities real for everyday New Yorkers. In tandem with apprenticeships, workforce training, local job placement, and the contribution of crucial environmental-justice advocacy groups like UPROSE, Green City Force, and the HOPE Program, this action plan advances a more just climate transition for New Yorkers.”

Through a Request for Proposal to be released on March 18, 2024, NYCEDC will seek an operator for its new Climate Innovation Hub at the Brooklyn Army Terminal. Potential partners can learn more about the vision for the hub and complete a partner form to register interest.

Climate technology companies are a particularly bright spot within New York City’s green business landscape. As of 2022, the New York City metropolitan area is the third largest climate tech ecosystem in the country with 179 active climate tech companies and venture capital investments, reaching almost $4 billion in 2021. This opportunity is turbocharged by over $2 billion in venture capital funding flowing to New York City’s climate tech sector since 2021, a 400 percent spike over the $500 million in investment from 2018 to 2020; ambitious city and state climate policy targets; and over $500 billion in public funding being made available at the state and federal levels to support the nation's shift to a green economy.

The Green Economy Action Plan deliver on a key commitment in Mayor Adams’ “PlaNYC: Getting Sustainability Done” plan, New York’s long-term strategic climate plan. The Green Economy Action Plan also builds on decades-long work led by advocacy environmental groups, including UPROSE, whose Green Resilient Industrial District (GRID) Plan and ‘The GRID 2.0” provide a comprehensive, community-led path to decarbonize Sunset Park and ensure a just transition towards a greener and cleaner future.

“The Green Economy Action Plan demonstrates our administration's commitment to ensuring that all New Yorkers can contribute to and benefit from a resilient and strong New York City,” said Mayor's Office of Food Policy Executive Director Kate MacKenzie. “We are proud to be part of a city investing in climate-resilient systems and solutions, including sustainable food distribution, production, consumption, and disposal. The plan lays out how we can continue to engage the private sector in meeting our ambitious climate goals through the city's Plant-Powered Carbon Challenge, work towards decarbonization of food distribution, and support sustainable food businesses and practices.”

“The Green Economy Action Plan is truly a win-win for New Yorkers,” said New York City Department of City Planning Director Dan Garodnick. “By creating good-paying green industry jobs and bolstering energy-efficient tech throughout the five boroughs, we’re keeping our city on the cutting edge of innovation and a more sustainable path. Thanks to policies like this and ‘City of Yes for Carbon Neutrality,’ we’re well on our way to a greener, healthier, more prosperous future.”

“Realizing a more sustainable and equitable transportation future entails dedicated investments in environmentally friendly initiatives and infrastructure throughout all five boroughs,” said New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “DOT is proud to contribute to the Green Economy Action Plan, including through our green freight, electric vehicle charging, and shared mobility programming, which foster green job opportunities for New Yorkers and propel the city towards achieving ambitious climate action goals.”

“Today marks a pivotal moment in our city’s commitment toward building a more sustainable future for all New Yorkers. With the unveiling of the Green Economy Action Plan, we are not only making strides toward combating the impacts of climate change, but we are also laying the foundation for equitable economic growth,” said New York City’s Department of Buildings Commissioner Jimmy Oddo. “The Climate Innovation Hub at the Brooklyn Army Terminal, in particular, will help foster green technology startups, which are going to be critical as larger property owners work to reduce carbon emissions from their buildings.”

“Through the Green Economy Action Plan, we’re doubling down on our commitment to environmental justice and equitable workforce development, as we simultaneously embrace the challenge of climate change,” said New York City Department of Citywide Administration Commissioner Dawn M. Pinnock. “We are thrilled to be part of this important effort as we work together to make sure everyone gets a fair shot at a better, greener future.”

“New York City is and must continue to be a global leader in the fight against climate change. With the city's Green Economy Action Plan as our guide, we now have a clear roadmap to build a resilient, green economy in preparing for the economic and environmental realities of what’s to come,” said Dr. Stephen Hammer, CEO, New York Climate Exchange. “The Exchange and our partners are thrilled to be part of this endeavor. We look forward to working with City Hall, entrepreneurs, community organizations, and the financial sector to identify and promote jobs for both low- and high-skilled workers that help the city meet its climate adaptation and mitigation goals.”

In April 2023, the Adams administration, Governors Island, and the State University of New York Stony Brook University unveiled the “New York Climate Exchange,” a transformative vision for a first-in-the-nation climate research, education, and jobs hub on Governors Island that will create thousands of permanent jobs and $1 billion in economic impact for the city. The Exchange will establish a cross-sector consortium of over 45 partner organizations, representing leading universities, businesses, and non-profit organizations, and will develop a state-of-the-art, $700-million, 400,000-square-foot campus dedicated to researching and developing innovative climate solutions that will be scaled across New York City and equip New Yorkers for green-collar jobs of the future.

Sunset Park in South Brooklyn continues to be an emerging hub for climate innovation. In March 2022, Mayor Adams announced an agreement to transform the city owned South Brooklyn Marine Terminal (SBMT) into one of the largest offshore wind port facilities in the nation. The world-class offshore wind hub at South Brooklyn Marine Terminal is projected to support the buildout, management, and interconnection of electricity generation for more than 2 million homes. Last September, NYCEDC launched Pilots at the Brooklyn Army Terminal, a climate innovation pilot program allowing companies to test and scale their technologies in live environments.

“The future of New York's economy and of American jobs is in green infrastructure,” said U.S. Representative Dan Goldman. “I'm thrilled to see our city preparing for and embracing this green energy future by investing in jobs that will help our city combat climate change and mitigate future extreme weather events. While we must ensure that community voices are front and center while this plan is implemented, this critically important investment and training will ensure that our economy is competitive and prepared for years to come.”

“The historic Green Economy Action Plan is the roadmap to an economy laser-focused on sustainability, resilience, and financial empowerment. This first-of-its-kind plan utilizes a $100 million investment in the ‘Climate Innovation Hub’ at Brooklyn Army Terminal to create thousands of jobs and apprenticeships in fields that tackle climate change head-on,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “It will supercharge our economy, producing 400,000 green collar jobs and generating an economic impact of $55 billion. It puts us on the path to New York City becoming the leader in green collar jobs and the green economy of the future.”

“We must do everything in our power to reverse the impact of climate change on our planet. The time for half measures is over,” said New York State Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon. “I'm encouraged to see that New York City is taking bold action to grow the city's green economy and invest in green jobs, especially at centers of innovation like the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Thanks to Mayor Adams for his commitment to protecting our planet for future generations.”

“As New York City’s green economy grows, it is critically important to develop a highly skilled workforce and create pipelines to family-sustaining union careers for all New Yorkers interested in entering the industry,” said Gary LaBarbera, president, Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York (BCTC). “The Green Economy Action Plan highlights union apprenticeship programs that commit to building a sustainable workforce that will meet labor demands and propel us towards our clean energy goals. BCTC is looking forward to working alongside New York City leadership to increase these opportunities, provide economic mobility and ensure that New Yorkers are meaningfully included high-quality, green collar union jobs.”

“Green City Force (GCF) is excited to participate in the announcement of the Green Economy Action Plan. This investment is a significant move towards a #futuregreencity rooted in environmental, economic, and social justice,” said Tonya Gayle, executive director, Green City Force. “This plan fully aligns with GCF's priorities: tapping and supporting the inspired potential of young leaders to power and lead a green and inclusive economy through service in sustainability.”

“With more than 40 years of dedicated service to the Brooklyn community, Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow has been at the forefront of cultivating a skilled and diverse workforce through its employment and educational services,” said Evelyn Ortiz and Greg Rideout, co-chief executive officers, Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow. “We are thrilled to collaborate with the mayoral administration and the New York City Economic Development Corporation on their Green Economy Action Plan to address the anticipated four-fold increase in green economy jobs over the next 15 years, with a strong focus on community hiring. This commitment reinforces our shared dedication to sustainable economic growth and equity, while also addressing the city's challenges related to climate change.”

“The Green Economy Action Plan demonstrates New York City’s continued commitment to be a national leader of the Green Jobs sector at a scale that will both meet the growing climate crisis and bring economic empowerment in a sector that is steadily growing by over 8% per year,” said Tracey Capers, executive director, The HOPE Program. “The HOPE Program, which provides Green Job career training and links to employment in communities most affected by environmental racism, applauds the expertise and opportunities that this plan will bring. Every New Yorker will benefit from this investment that will allow our city to be greener, healthier, and energy efficient for long-term sustainability.”

“Plumbing in general, and specifically the production and delivery of domestic hot water for bathing, washing, cooking, and a variety of other uses, is of paramount importance to the safety and comfort of the residents of the City of New York,” said Paul O’Connor, business manager, Plumbers Local Union No. 1 of New York City. “A huge part of the energy consumed in any building is tied directly to domestic hot water supply. As new green technologies are deployed to sustainably continue to provide domestic hot water for our community, this critical work must also create and maintain high quality jobs for New Yorkers. We must plan for a safe and livable New York of the future through a just green transition.”

“FABSCRAP is just one of so many incredible organizations and startups addressing climate change in New York City. I'm very proud to have our work featured in the Green Economy Action Plan. It's encouraging to see that the City's planned investment in a more sustainable future includes the creation of equitable jobs, accessible spaces, and networks of support for the most needed innovations,” said FABSCRAP founder & CEO Jessica Schreiber.

“In unveiling his Green Economy Action Plan for NYC, Mayor Adams has taken a bold step towards a sustainable future. The “Climate Innovation Hub” underscores the city's commitment to environmental stewardship and its dedication to training and expanding the green-collar workforce in New York City,” said Meredith Beckford-Smart, Ph.D., executive director, Genspace NYC. “By investing in future-focused industries and empowering our workforce with the skills for tomorrow's jobs, Mayor Adams is not just building a greener economy; he is cultivating a more equitable and prosperous future for all New Yorkers.”

“itselectric's mission is to rapidly scale charging infrastructure needed for the electric vehicle transition in every city and on every block; meeting the needs of private, fleet, and rideshare drivers,” said Tiya Gordon, co-founder and chief operating officer, itselectric. “Our partnership with NYCEDC has become a model for the city to pilot new and innovative technologies with private companies; enabling the collective approach required to achieve New York City's ambitious climate goals with the crucial principles of speed and scale.”

“The Green Action Economy Plan makes clear that building decarbonization not only cuts emissions but also creates opportunities for green job growth,” said John Mandyck, CEO, Urban Green Council. “Investing in workforce training is key to hitting our city's carbon reduction targets, and we look forward to leveraging Urban Green’s training expertise to help meet the city’s climate goals.”

“The Division of Workforce Development and Continuing Education at Kingsborough Community College (KCC), CUNY, commends and wholeheartedly supports the Green Economy Action Plan for its efforts in establishing infrastructure and programs aimed at equipping New York communities with the necessary training to cultivate the next generation of clean energy professionals,” said Christine Zagari-LoPorto, associate dean, KCC Division of Workforce Development and Continuing Education. “The allocation towards the Climate Innovation Hub will support the establishment of an educational center and assist in identifying talent from historically underrepresented communities, ensuring that all New Yorkers can access these benefits, mirroring our efforts at KCC within the Maritime industry and Offshore Wind. We eagerly anticipate its transformation into a cornerstone for training, employment, and innovation.”

“Mayor Adams and his administration has championed a green economy since he took office two years ago. Today’s announcement is an important and necessary investment in building Brooklyn’s economic development,” said Randy Peers, president and CEO, Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. “The new “Climate Innovative Hub” will not only bring new jobs to Brooklyn, but it will provide necessary skills and education to historically marginalized communities. This is a big win for the future of Brooklyn and all of New York City.”

“With the support of Mayor Adams and NYCEDC, the members of Local Union No. 3, IBEW look forward to continuing and strengthening our role in the growing green economy in New York City in support of the “Green Economy Action Plan”, working on the transition necessary to address the climate crisis,” said Christopher Erikson, business manager, Local Union No. 3, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. “In alignment with the Mayor and EDC, we believe these green jobs of the future should be union jobs with family-sustaining wages and benefits, and as the work opportunity expands, we look to welcome more apprentices supported by this plan into our ranks, making New York City a better place to live and work.”

“The green economy has the potential to be a major new engine of middle-class job growth in New York City, so it's great to see this comprehensive plan to help the city take full advantage of this opportunity and ensure that a large share of the new jobs go to New Yorkers from environmentally-disadvantaged communities,” said Jonathan Bowles, executive director, Center for an Urban Future. “Mayor Adams, NYCEDC, and NYCTalent deserve a lot of credit for getting ahead of this emerging part of the city's economy and building career pipelines for New Yorkers from low-income backgrounds into the well-paying green jobs that will be created.”

“The release of the Green Economy Action Plan marks a significant milestone in advancing New York City's commitment to combat climate change and foster economic growth,” said Jelena Kovačević, dean, NYU Tandon School of Engineering. “I'm excited about the plan's focus on sustainability, climate tech startups, and the creation of a collaborative ecosystem, which aligns with our Sustainable Engineering Initiative mission and positions the city as a hub for green innovation, education, and job creation.”

“Matching New York’s ground-breaking leadership in climate action legislation will require an equally innovative initiative to train and up-skill our workforce,” said Richard C. Yancey, FAIA, LEED AP, executive director, Building Energy Exchange. “The Green Economy Action Plan is critical to unlocking New York’s talent and innovation, delivering on the promise of a green collar workforce, while creating thousands of jobs to reduce the threat of climate change.”

“The Green Economy Action Plan represents the future of a resilient, sustainable, and equitable New York. At Streetlife, we are thrilled to be a part of this story and excited to work with the city’s test bed network to help early-stage startups bring their urban climate solutions to life,” said Sonam Velani, co-founder and managing partner, Streetlife Ventures.

“NineDot Energy is excited to support Mayor Adams’ Green Economy Plan” said Adam Cohen, co-founder and chief technology officer, NineDot. “Our company was created to improve access to cleaner energy, enable a more stable grid, and bring environmental justice results to impacted city neighborhoods. We look forward to partnering with NYCEDC and sister agencies to advance our battery storage and other clean energy projects, all while increasing jobs and supporting green economy workforce initiatives for underserved New Yorkers. As a business started and headquartered in Brooklyn, with a growing employee base centered in the city, we applaud all the mayor’s efforts to make New York cleaner and greener, from this plan, to the City of Yes for Carbon Neutrality, to the Zero Emissions Vehicle mandate, and more.”

“Our climate future is dependent on developing a clean energy economy that works for everyone, regardless of their zip-code, skin color, or socioeconomic status,” said Alia Soomro, deputy director for NYC policy, New York League of Conservation Voters. “As new ways of building are implemented, new technologies come online, and cleaner modes of transportation grow to scale, there is a huge opportunity to center our workforce pipeline around communities who have suffered the most from decades of short-sighted environmental policies, and that is exactly what Mayor Adams’ Green Economy Action Plan will do.”

“Equinor applauds Mayor Adams and the New York City Economic Development Corporation on their Green Economy Action Plan and the significant investments they are making to New York City’s green economy,” said Molly Morris, president, Equinor Renewables Americas. “New York City is paving the way in climate leadership and the pursuit of environmental justice for disadvantaged communities. In support of this, we are proud to be a partner with New York City on the revitalization of the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal.”

“The Green Economy Network and JobsFirstNYC applaud New York City Mayor Eric Adams, NYCEDC, and NYCTalent for unveiling the Green Economy Action Plan, a visionary roadmap for the city's sustainable future. Most notably, the mayor’s plan centers equity, employment, and economic growth, and we are committed to collaborating with the administration and citywide partners to ensure the success of this plan,” said Keri Faulhaber, vice president, JobsFirstNYC. “Together, we can pave the way for a resilient and inclusive green economy, creating opportunities for New Yorkers, especially those in environmentally-disadvantaged communities, to thrive in the nearly 400,000 green collar jobs projected by 2040.”

“The Green Economy Action Plan is a groundbreaking initiative that will propel New York City to the forefront of the global green economy and ensure a more sustainable future for all New Yorkers,” said Carlo A. Scissura, Esq., president and CEO, New York Building Congress. “By committing to the creation of nearly 400,000 green collar jobs by 2040 and a $100 million Climate Innovation Hub, we are not just investing in the environment, we are investing in our people and our collective future.”

Art & Biotechnology Collide at Sunset Park’s Brooklyn Army Terminal Brooklyn, NY

BROOKLYN, NY—Something biological is brewing at BioBAT Art Space. Located at the Brooklyn Army Terminal, BioBAT Art Space is a gallery dedicated to the field of BioArt in which the border between art and science dissolves. In BioArt, scientific practices like genetics, mycology, microscopy and bacterial cultivation provide the inspiration for artistic creation, and often the materials from which the work is made. Here artists paint with living yeast instead of paint, and sculpt with cultivated mushrooms as opposed to traditional plaster or clay. One artist derives blue dye from the toxic bacteria e-coli found in NY waterways to create ephemeral dyed-silk representations of petri dishes. Each of the eleven artists on display are artist and part research scientist, and their work blooms as a result of this ambitious and creative intellectual marriage.

BioBAT’s current exhibition is entitled Embodied Futures and the Ecology of Care and features eleven artists drawn from Brooklyn creative hubs Genspace, Makerspace and the NARS Foundation.The exhibition explores the question: “How can the concept of ‘care’ extend beyond the human sphere to include all living species and ecosystems?” Inviting viewers to see care as a dynamic force that sustains and nurtures all beings, this exhibition encourages us to break free of the hierarchical limitations often associated with the term and suggests a world where “care” becomes universally accepted as part of the fabric of ecological society.

Together, these eleven artists collectively challenge the audience to consider their role in shaping the ethical, political, and ecological landscapes of tomorrow. Embodied Futures and the Ecology of Care is on display until

March 16, 2024. The Gallery is open Saturdays from 12:00–5:00 pm and by appointment at info@biobatartspace.com

About the Exhibition

In an era where technology and ecological paradigms are in constant flux, Embodied Futures and the Ecology of Care challenges normative views around care, body, and existence. This thought-provoking exhibition brings together art, biology, ethics, and technology to explore the concept of “care” as a universal principle that transcends human-centric viewpoints.

NYCEDC, Genspace Launch Groundbreaking ‘Break into Biotech’ Training Program

The Innovative Workforce Development Pilot Will Provide Hands-on Training, Mentorship and Career Development Opportunities to New Yorkers Seeking to Work in the Life Sciences

The Training Program Aims to Increase Opportunities in New York City’s Rapidly Growing Biotechnology Sector for Adults from All Educational Backgrounds

BROOKLYN, NY—New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) and Genspace, the world’s first community biology lab, today announced the launch of its groundbreaking workforce development program Break into Biotech in New York City. The pilot program will provide access to hands-on training, networking, mentorship, and career development opportunities necessary to break into New York City’s rapidly growing biotechnology sector. The program will be open to New Yorkers, who may not have a background in STEM, but want to pursue employment in the life sciences ecosystem.

NYCEDC has allocated $500,000 to Genspace to run programming that will support up to 60 participants across five cohorts. The funds, supported by LifeSci NYC – a $1 billion initiative overseen by NYCEDC to create 40,000 jobs over the next 10 to 15 years – is designed to support and accelerate the growth of New York City’s life sciences industry. The program is made possible through NYCEDC’s collaboration with Deerfield Management in support of the Cure life sciences campus.

“We are thrilled to support the Break into Biotech training program in Sunset Park – a waterfront district in South Brooklyn that is an emerging hub for innovation. New York City is dedicated to supporting the growth of future-focused innovation sectors, like biotechnology, which are poised to supercharge our current and future economy,” said NYCEDC President & CEO Andrew Kimball. “While we are building these industries from the ground up – we must ensure there are accessible career pathways for all New Yorkers. We look forward to working with Genspace on increasing opportunities in the life sciences for people from all educational backgrounds.”

"As Chair of the Committee on Economic Development I have witnessed first hand the important work LifeSci NYC carries out for our City and our up and coming leaders in life sciences. The green economy is the future of New York City’s workforce. Therefore it is essential that we bolster all New Yorkers who are looking to join and continue on in the sector. I am happy to see this community forward initiative come to fruition,” said Council Member Amanda Farías.

“This novel initiative reflects Genspace’s steadfast commitment to education and industry advancement; we are excited to embark on this journey. Break into Biotech is a transformative program designed to cultivate a diverse talent pool, drive innovation, and shape the future of New York City’s biotech ecosystem. Through this strategic collaboration and investment, we will be able to build a skilled workforce of scientists and professionals who will contribute significantly to the growth and sustainability of NYC’s life sciences sector. We are grateful for the support of the New York City Economic Development Corporation and look forward to making a lasting impact on the future of biotechnology and research,” said Meredith Beckford-Smart, PhD, Genspace Executive Director.

"The Break into Biotech program's training model is exactly what New Yorkers need to prepare them to enter the family sustaining biotechnology jobs of the 21st century,” said Abby Jo Sigal, Executive Director of the NYC Mayor's Office of Talent and Workforce Development." By providing mentoring and hands on training in a real world setting, this innovative program will create much needed pathways for New Yorkers to access emerging biotech jobs and will help New York City remain a leader in the STEM fields."

Programming will take place in Genspace’s community biology laboratory located in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. Genspace aims to break down barriers and give open access to biotechnology by providing independent researchers, scientists, artists, designers, entrepreneurs, hobbyists, teachers and students a meaningful hands-on experience with the life sciences. 

The community biology laboratory provides supplies and equipment including microscopes, centrifuges, DNA sequencing and protein gel electrophoresis equipment, along with space for educational classes and STEM programming for students.

The program will take place over three months and provide students with immersive, hands-on practical lab training and experiences, gaining proficiency in essential biotech techniques and protocols. The hands-on training will consist of in-lab workshops, such as advanced lab techniques and computational methods, and project-based learning experiences aligned to students’ interests and career aspirations. The program will feature two tracks, one in traditional life sciences and one in sustainability-focused biotechnology, such as biomaterials, building on the city's commitment to advancing this industry.

The Break into Biotech program will also provide personalized insights and advice as participants navigate entering the biotech ecosystem and connect participants with networking events, and resources to enhance their entry into the biotech workforce.

According to a Department of City Planning (DCP) report Life Sciences in the NYC Metro, life sciences companies employ people with specialized skillsets, from biochemists, engineers, and laboratory technicians to research assistants and coordinators, lab managers, and many others. Those working in technician occupations, which typically do not require a bachelor’s degree and include Biological Technicians and Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, earn living wage salaries upwards of $50,000 in NYC. 

Sunset Park in South Brooklyn is an emerging hub for innovation. The waterfront district has extensive industrial infrastructure, a diverse array of tenants and uses, and connection to major transportation networks. NYCEDC’s primary assets in Sunset Park include the Brooklyn Army Terminal (BAT), the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, and the Made in New York Campus (MiNY). Each of these assets provides unique opportunities for innovation and business development to support and grow New York City’s economy. 

NYCEDC is leading the way in advancing the city’s green economy sector by seeking to establish a Climate Innovation Hub at BAT, part of the 200+ acres of waterfront NYCEDC manages in Sunset Park. Click here to learn more about the vision for the Climate Innovation Hub at BAT at one of the upcoming webinars and complete a partner form to register your interest with other potential partners.

Last December, Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul unveiled the Science Park and Research Campus (SPARC) Kips Bay Master Plan for this first-of-its-kind life sciences career and education hub that will anchor the city’s industry. The master plan unveils key project details, including a new site plan and conceptual design, a new model for education and job training pipelines, and updated economic impact projections showing how significantly it will further New York City's role as a global leader in creating and attracting accessible jobs in life sciences, health care, and public health by creating a pipeline from local public schools to careers in these essential sectors. The project is expected to create more than 15,000 total jobs and generate $42 billion in economic impact.

Additionally, last December, NYCEDC and Aanika Biosciences announced the opening of a new 27,000 square foot facility in Industry City, establishing The Aanika Center for Food Safety and Innovation. This investment helps cement New York City’s place as a global leader in sustainability-focused biotech and marks a continued commitment to supporting biotech innovation for climate and sustainability solutions. Last May, NYCEDC invested $800,000 to the cutting-edge biotech company as part of the LifeSci NYC Expansion Fund which helps life sciences companies expand their operations in one of New York City’s five boroughs. 

This new program also builds on significant progress the Adams administration has made to create and attract accessible jobs in life sciences and delivers on a key recommendation to invest in the sector from Mayor Adams and New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s “New' New York: Making New York Work for Everyone” plan. 

With over 500 biotech companies working on cutting edge research and development and a workforce of approximately 20,000 people, life sciences will drive significant growth for New Yorkers to a tune of over $82 billion worth of cumulative economic impact over the next 10-15 years. Combined with New York City’s 355,000-person tech workforce, the intersection of the City’s growing life sciences industry and the very established tech ecosystem are poised to supercharge New York City’s economy. 

Applications are open to adults with or without STEM degrees, no prior experience is required. This includes people who are: changing careers or looking to start on a career pathway in the life sciences; high school graduates or have a GED but aren’t interested in going to college right now; curious about working in the life sciences field; and recent college graduates who want more lab experience for their resume. If you are interested in applying to the Break into Biotech program, click here.

About NYCEDC
New York City Economic Development Corporation is a mission-driven, nonprofit organization that works for a vibrant, inclusive, and globally competitive economy for all New Yorkers. We take a comprehensive approach, through four main strategies: strengthen confidence in NYC as a great place to do business; grow innovative sectors with a focus on equity; build neighborhoods as places to live, learn, work, and play; and deliver sustainable infrastructure for communities and the city's future economy. To learn more about what we do, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Fluent BioSciences Partners with Genspace to Unleash the Power of PIPseqTM: Empowering Community Scientists to Transform Genomic Research

Watertown, MA, May 22, 2023–Fluent BioSciences, a life science tools company, delivering single-cell technology to laboratories across the United States and abroad, collaborates with Genspace by sponsoring a community science workshop in Brooklyn, NY. They hope to empower scientists by breaking down barriers in a field which has previously been marred by prohibitive costs and expertise requirements.

At Genspace, their mission is clear: to demystify scientific processes, ignite curiosity, and provide a platform for innovation. They offer a diverse range of hands-on STEAM education programs, catering to both youth and adults, empowering them to unlock their potential and actively engage in the world of biology. Beyond education, Genspace serves as a dynamic center for cultural and outreach events, enriching the public's understanding of science and its impact on society.

‘My graduate student Paul Frazel was thrilled to bring Fluent BioSciences and Genspace together to empower community scientists through the transformative potential of PIPseq," said Dr. Shane Liddelow, Assistant Professor, Neuroscience Institute of NYU School of Medicine. "By providing accessible tools and educational opportunities, we aim to make research more accessible, enabling more individuals to actively participate in the world of biology. This partnership embodies our shared commitment to breaking down barriers and fostering innovation within the scientific community. We strongly believe that the scalability and low barrier to entry afforded by PIPseq will enable us to bring single cell technology to the masses."

Fluent BioSciences’ 3’ Single Cell RNA Kits can capture 2,000-100,000+ cells per reaction. Using PIPseq T2 kits, the community scientists captured 2000 nuclei from sea anemone, Aiptasia, samples. Many in the course had no biology experience; however, the user friendliness and simplicity of PIPseq enabled them to take part in the workshop. 

“Our learners were excited to participate in this workshop,” said Elizabeth Tuck, Genspace’s Executive Director. “The opportunity to use technology that is typically reserved for academic and industry labs in a community setting opens up new worlds of possibilities. Our community scientists ask questions that traditional researchers may not consider, and with accessible technology like PIPseq and excellent scientific collaborators like Paul, our scientists can actually answer their own questions.”  

To learn more about the Genspace programs or the work they have done using PIPseq contact info@genspace.org or info@fluentbio.com.

Fluent BioSciences Partners with Genspace to Unleash the Power of PIPseqTM: Empowering Community Scientists to Transform Genomic Research

About Fluent BioSciences

Fluent BioSciences, a leading life sciences company focused on revolutionizing single cell analysis through simple, cost-effective and scalable solutions, announces the Nature Biotechnology Journal publication (DOI: 10.1038/s41587-023-01685-z) describing the foundational technology underlying PIPseq and demonstrating its flexibility across emulsification formats, scalability in cell capture and compatibility with multi-omic measurements in clinical samples.

THE GREEN-WOOD CEMETERY TO HOST NEW RESEARCH PROJECTS IN ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES AND CLIMATE CHANGE ON ITS 478 ACRES

Researchers From Brooklyn-Based Genspace And The University Of Wisconsin-Madison Awarded Grants To Study Soil Microbes And Plant Life

(Brooklyn, NY)—Historic cemeteries are one of our country’s most important, yet overlooked, resources for research. Scholarship in environmental science, urban studies, and the history of public health are just a few examples of possible areas of study that are made possible by the burial archives, plant records, and landscape typologies that exist in historic cemeteries. Cemeteries located in America’s largest cities, like The Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, NY, offer an extraordinary opportunity to explore the coupled relationships between human influence on natural systems in the urban environment.

The Green-Wood Cemetery recognizes the research potential of these extensive assets and makes them available to researchers and students. And now, Green-Wood welcomes two new research projects that will explore soil ecology and plant life cycles.

Today, Green-Wood announced the recipients of its 2023 Research Awards in Urban Environmental Science and Human/Nature Interactions to researchers at two outstanding institutions: the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Genspace, the world’s first community biology lab, located right here in Brooklyn.

This is the second year of research grants provided by Green-Wood. One new research project builds on the work of a previous research grant recipient, Theodore R. Muth, Professor of Biology at Brooklyn College and the CUNY Graduate Center, who last year examined the impact of land management and environmental stress on the microbes in the soil. 

In the first of two research projects funded for 2023, researchers from Genspace aim to characterize the community of bacteria that live around the root systems of trees and plants throughout Green-Wood. Titled “Investigating the Structure and Function of Rhizosphere Microbiomes,” it will be led by Leyla Hernandez, Education Manager at Genspace, and  Elizabeth Tuck, Executive Director, along with a team of high school interns.

“Understanding the diversity and functional consequences of bacterial communities in constantly managed soils like those at Green-Wood can provide insight into soil metabolism, nutrient cycling, and pollutant degradation. We hope this knowledge will aid in promoting plant and tree health and supporting essential ecosystem services and biodiversity,” Hernandez said.

In the second new initiative, titled “Cold hardiness and dormancy dynamics of woody perennials at The Green-Wood Cemetery,” Erica Kirchhof, Ph.D. Student, Department of Horticulture, University of Wisconsin-Madison, will study cold hardiness and dormancy of woody perennial plants at Green-Wood.

“Predicting spring phenological events such as budbreak can be instrumental in determining the implications of climate change on the future composition of forest communities, agriculture, and urban landscapes,” Kirchhof said. “Data collected from Green-Wood will be particularly useful in developing a more comprehensive understanding of dormancy progression and spring phenology in urban areas.”

In addition to Theodore R. Muth,  Green-Wood last year awarded grants to Myles Davis, M.A. candidate in Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology at Columbia University, to examine mesocarnivore distributions, including raccoons and other animals, across greenspaces such as Green-Wood and Prospect Park. You can view a virtual workshop in which 2023 researchers discussed their work and findings here.

“Green-Wood is a vital resource for environmental research,” said Green-Wood Board Chairman Peter Davidson. “We are in the largest city in the country, and this landscape is the city’s largest private hub for hands-on work in environmental studies.  We believe the findings and their implications for other urban greenspaces nationwide will be profound.”

Added Joseph Charap, Green-Wood’s Vice President of Horticulture, “The Green-Wood Cemetery includes a variety of dynamic ecosystems that allows us to explore and promote environmental stewardship. Our green space is an actively curated arboretum, and given its biodiversity, Green-Wood is an ideal place to further research that will contribute to the field of environmental study.”

As one of New York City’s first, large green spaces, Green-Wood was an early inspiration for the creation of the city’s public parks. Today, Green-Wood’s arboretum (nationally accredited at the second-highest level) features a dynamic living collection of trees and shrubs, including 690 unique tree species and cultivars. Some of Green-Wood’s oldest trees predate the Cemetery’s founding in 1838, and the collection continues to grow and diversify—with new plantings selected for climate adaptiveness, wildlife support, and to sustain the natural and cultural value for the inspiration and benefit of future generations.

The grant program, launched after an internal benchmarking study that explored the work of other urban greenspaces nationwide, is designed to support Green-Wood’s institutional commitment to the environment by inviting scientists to utilize the historic landscape in their research. Supporting this research helps to fill knowledge gaps in our current understanding of the consequences of climate change and human influence while helping to answer the question of how to pivot our land stewardship practices to promote soil health and resilient urban forests.

The grant program is made possible by The Green-Wood Cemetery’s 501c3 not-for-profit organization, the Green-Wood Historic Fund, which supports educational and cultural programs at the historic burial ground. Information about the 2024 grant application process will be available on the Green-Wood website later this year. 

Green-Wood is indebted to the members of our Research Awards Advisory Committee who helped to shape this exciting new initiative: Kenneth A. Gould, Professor of Sociology, Brooklyn College; Jenny Kao-Kniffin, Associate Professor, Horticulture Section, School of Integrative Plant Science, and Associate Director, Agriculture & Life Sciences, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Cornell University; Timon McPhearson, Associate Professor of Urban Ecology & Director of the Urban Systems Lab, The New School for Social Research; Kate Orff, Professor & Director, Urban Design Program, Columbia University, and SCAPE Landscape Architecture; and Linh Pham, Associate, SCAPE Landscape Architecture.

About Green-Wood

Established in 1838, The Green-Wood Cemetery, a National Historic Landmark, is recognized as one of the world’s most beautiful cemeteries. As the permanent residence of over 570,000 individuals, Green-Wood’s magnificent grounds, grand architecture, and world-class statuary have made it a destination for half a million visitors annually, including national and international tourists, New Yorkers, and Brooklynites. At the same time, Green-Wood is also an outdoor museum, an arboretum, and a repository of history. Throughout the year, it offers innovative programs in arts and culture, nature and the environment, education, workforce development, restoration, and research. For more information, please visit www.green-wood.com.

Illumina Supports Next Generation Scientists at Genspace 

Access to cutting edge genomics technology is expanding beyond the walls of industry and the conventional classroom. Illumina and The Illumina Corporate Foundation have granted Genspace in-kind product donations and a cash grant totalling over $100,000 to build capacity for authentic genomics research and project-based learning for New York City youth. The award will come in the form of a MiniSeq DNA Sequencing System, BaseSpace Sequencing Hub Credits, service contract agreements, library preparation kits and sequencing reagents.

With this investment, Illumina and Genspace will provide students from historically excluded backgrounds with hands-on genomics experiences based on their interests. Significant racial and ethnic group disparities persist in biotech careers, limiting the innovation potential of these fields. Biotech careers have increased nearly 20% in the New York City region since 2018, but one of the major bottlenecks remains hiring skilled talent for the growing sector. Early exposure to genomics through programs such as Genspace’s Biorocket Research Internship Program inspire the next generation of students to discover and explore biotech careers. 

“Genomics is the single most important innovation of our time. Providing exposure to the tools that are enabling the next generation of researchers and clinicians will usher in the future of personalized medicine,” said John Frank, Chief Public Affairs Officer and Illumina Corporate Foundation Board member. “We know that talent is everywhere but opportunity is not. We aim to eliminate barriers by supporting STEM education and accelerating access to genomics for all.”

“This technology allows our youth to explore genomics in the context of questions they find important for their communities, and to build the skills, confidence, and science identity necessary for their future in STEM,” said Beth Tuck, Executive Director of Genspace. Past Genspace interns have investigated questions about the skin microbiome, environmental biofilms, and the plant rhizosphere. With the support of Illumina and the Illumina Corporate Foundation, these students will use metagenomics and transcriptomics techniques to elevate their research questions and make novel discoveries in environmental and human health. 

About Illumina 

Illumina is improving human health by unlocking the power of the genome. Our focus on innovation has established us as a global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, serving customers in the research, clinical, and applied markets. Our products are used for applications in the life sciences, oncology, reproductive health, agriculture, and other emerging segments. To learn more, visit illumina.com