The first step is often the most important. Writing for The Economist, climate economist Gernot Wagner explains how to make the leap
For individual actions, however small, to be effective it is essential that they generate momentum. Consider cycling in cities. Cyclists demanded more and safer bike paths, which in turn led to more cyclists—virtuous cyclists leading to a virtuous cycle of policy push and pull. Amsterdam, Copenhagen and other cities famous for having more cycle-trips than car-trips reached that point because of early cycle activists demanding safer roads.
Cities play an outsized role when it comes to individual effectiveness. Just by living in New York as a typical New Yorker, the average household halves carbon emissions compared with living in a single-family home in the suburbs. The reasons are simple: smaller spaces, combined with shorter commutes to work and play. Does that imply a personal sacrifice? Judging from the eye-popping property prices in New York and other major cities, people do not consider it as such.
Fortunately, many of the steps that improve urban living also improve cities’ climate balance. Yet carbon-efficient living is not enough. Cities must also develop programmes tobuildings and improve transport. In urban centres, insulating one building warms the homes of many families, and good public transport reduces pollution and emissions.
Time is the essential factor. It is one thing for a government to promise significant carbon cuts by the end of the decade. It is another to realise that today’s living and mobility choices lock in emissions for years to come. New York City has laws for large buildings tocarbon emissions by 40% by 2030. In building terms, that is right around the corner. It takes years to draw up plans, secure financing, obtain permits, hire contractors and then manage the renovations.
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