NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- Vice President Kamala Harris made a stop at John F. Kennedy International Airport Monday, where she touted the Biden administration's plans to combat climate change, saying it will "take every possible action to meet our nation's climate commitment."
As President Joe Biden was in Scotland to announce the country’s long-term strategy on climate change, where he also apologized for President Donald Trump’s leaving of the Paris Accord, Harris tackled the subject on a local level.
“Right here in New York, we have seen climate change become a climate crisis just in the last several months,” said Harris. “Air pollution is causing health problems, like asthma. Rising sea levels are flooding streets, and storms are growing more frequent and more dangerous.”
Harris underscored the importance of making sure to “put in the work” on climate action. Biden announced Monday that the country is setting a goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Harris called back to Superstorm Sandy and Hurricane Ida and their impact on the state — but also how now is a moment of opportunity.
“It is an opportunity to create good union jobs. It is an opportunity to build healthier communities and stronger local economies,” said Harris.
The VP called the framework for Build Back Better, along with their infrastructure deal, the “largest effort to combat climate change in our nation’s history.”
It calls for investment in electric vehicles and clean energy, while investing in communities hit hard by climate change.
“Once these bills are passed, plumbers will fill the jobs we need to replace all of those lead pipes,” said Harris. “Young people will join our new Civilian Climate Corps. These are the opportunities we have within our grasp right now … climate change -- well, it's not slowing down and neither can we.”
Harris and Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm also announced new initiatives — including a partnership with private companies to drive electric heat pump innovation, which Harris said will also bring down energy bill costs for families.
They also announced a $127 million investment into electric trucks.
“We should be able to move our goods, to move commerce without harming the children of our communities,” said Harris, referencing the pollution caused by oil-fueled rigs.
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, Rep. Gregory Meeks, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards were there for Harris' visit to Queens, along side Port Authority leaders.