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illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on the Washington Post or enjoy below
🗞️ Driving the news: A new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine suggests that future buildings should potentially lack gas line connections as a means to help the U.S. reach its ambitious climate goals
• This was one of the report’s over 80 recommendations to support a just energy transition, aligning with the US’ broader vision of ensuring that it meets its rigorous climate objectives
🔭 The context: As global environmental concerns intensify, there has been a distinct shift in perception towards the use of natural gas
• This change is underscored by the urge to decrease our collective carbon footprint, with ground-breaking legislative measures, namely the Inflation Reduction Act and the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law, paving the way to a more sustainable future
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: A future less dependent on fossil fuels is essential for the fight against climate change
• By planning for electrification and reducing new gas line installations, the U.S. can ensure a more sustainable infrastructure development and prevent potential redundant investments in fossil fuel infrastructure
⏭️ What's next: With various U.S. cities already prohibiting or discouraging gas use in new buildings, the shift towards electrification is evident
• Yet, with a substantial reliance on natural gas in many areas, careful transition planning is crucial to ensure reliability and equitable distribution
💬 One quote: “You might just require electricity in the first place and not extend gas pipelines into new areas where they are not going to be used for very long,” (Susan Tierney, expert from the Analysis Group)
📈 One stat: In 2021, New York City became the largest city in the U.S. to ban gas connections for newly constructed buildings under seven stories
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