ASN EI&E Showcases Groundbreaking Climate Tech at NYC Climate Week Launch

New York-based Sea Cadets and Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) cadets gathered at the U.S. Armed Forces Recruiting Station in Times Square to engage in a significant event during Climate Week NYC.

Department of the Navy (DON) researchers and engineers from various commands showcased innovative climate and energy technologies to the young cadets. Technologies included hydrogen-powered fuel cells, small unit power systems, water-conserving firefighting nozzles, atmospheric water generation, and eco-friendly green concrete. The initiative aimed to educate the cadets on climate action and inspire potential careers within the DON focused on sustainability.

Madeleine White, resilience innovation research portfolio manager at Naval Facilities Engineering and Expeditionary Warfare Center, highlighted the benefits of green concrete. This sustainable material significantly reduces the carbon footprint of traditional concrete. “Being able to demonstrate this technology to future users makes my job fulfilling,” White stated.

Jeremiah Rodriguez, a junior and NJROTC cadet at Curtis High School in Staten Island, reflected on the experience. “Global warming is usually a background concern for me, but the new technology gives me hope for a better future,” Rodriguez said. He appreciated the tangible solutions presented and felt optimistic about his generation’s ability to address climate change.

Climate Week NYC, running from September 22-29, 2024, is the largest annual climate event, featuring over 600 events across New York City. Organized by Climate Group in coordination with the United Nations and the City of New York, it brings together leaders from business, government, civil society, and the climate sector to discuss and promote climate action.

The Department of the Navy’s participation in Climate Week NYC aligns with its Climate Action 2030 initiative. Launched in May 2022 by Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, the initiative recognizes climate change as a destabilizing force and commits to building a climate-ready naval force. Under this directive, the DON continues to focus on energy resilience, sustainable infrastructure, environmental protection, and occupational health safety.