Climate and environmental justice reporter at WHYY Sophia Schmidt shared her insight on Philadelphia’s environmental terrain. The interview with ecoWURD host P.O.C. highlighted how electric vehicles will potentially change how ecological sustainability will be tackled by city legislation. 

Schmidt explained that despite the growing interest in EV’s – there are an estimated 600 fully electric vehicles now operating in the city — there will potentially be issues regarding public charging infrastructure. The issue, now on a lower scale, continues to be a major challenge; causing frustration among EV owners who hope to contribute to a sustainable Philadelphia ecosystem.

“The city has actually made sort of a policy decision that they’re focusing more on equitable modes of transportation, climate friendly transportation, like walking, biking, and transit over electric vehicles,” said Schmidt.

Schmidt also detailed another one of her articles on the redevelopment of the former PES refinery site in South Philadelphia. The site, now owned by Hilco Redevelopment Partners, is slated to become a life sciences campus. Schmidt highlighted the new organization will distribute discretionary funds for community initiatives, which includes a $1 million commitment over ten years.

However, there has been backlash on the project concerning the potential environmental impacts and gentrification. 

“There has been some criticism of this commitment,” said Schimdt. 

“They’re worried about the logistics hub, the warehouses having these diesel trucks that will come through and bring more air pollution..the communities surrounding this property really need protections against displacement through gentrification.” 

The full conversation on EV chargers and the redevelopment of the former refinery can be listened to on SoundCloud below and tune in every Friday for ecoWURD segments.