Stony Brook University On Governors Island
On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, Stony Brook University reaffirmed its leadership role in The New York Climate Exchange during a visit to Governors Island. Participation from more than 50 faculty and staff underscored the university’s commitment as the anchor institution of this first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at addressing global climate challenges through research, education, and public engagement.
Project Closed Circuit: Helping Cities Lead on EV Battery Circularity
The New York Climate Exchange recently launched Project Closed Circuit, a new project to put cities at the center of electric vehicle (EV) battery circularity/
Batteries are at the heart of the effort to electrify the economy and move away from fossil fuels. From powering EVs to storing electricity generated by wind and solar, global battery demand has surged by around 33% per year over the past 30 years. Nearly 95% of recent growth is driven by EVs. In 2013, there were only 100,000 electric vehicles on the road worldwide; just 10 years later that number reached 40 million!
Meet the Team: Ilona Rayan, Multilateral Engagement Associate
This month’s “Meet the Team” spotlight features Ilona Rayan, Multilateral Engagement Associate at The New York Climate Exchange. Ilona has a background in climate and international diplomacy, with experience helping cities lead on climate and influencing policies and stakeholders towards undertaking ambitious climate action. At The Exchange, she supports our Oceans programming, as well as our Climate Finance work, including supporting the Wall Street Climate Forum for Young Professionals.
Meet The Team: Aja Two Crows, Community Initiatives Associate
This month’s “Meet the Team” spotlight features Aja Two Crows, Community Initiatives Associate at The New York Climate Exchange. Aja’s background spans environmental education, regenerative design, Indigenous knowledge systems, and climate storytelling. At The Exchange, she supports a range of programs that connect climate justice with community engagement, from youth learning experiences to public storytelling initiatives. Whether she’s partnering with NYCHA residents or rethinking how we talk about climate through an equity lens, Aja centers a place-based, community-first approach in everything she does.
Meet The Team: Sonja Neve, Events Associate
Our “Meet the Team” Q&A series continues with Sonja Neve, Events Associate at The New York Climate Exchange. With a background in international communications, environmental advocacy, and community organizing, Sonja brings a deep understanding of how meaningful change happens through connection and collaboration. At The Exchange, she helps bring climate conversations to life through dynamic events and convenings. Whether she’s planning Climate Week NYC programming, spotlighting grassroots sustainability efforts, or biking between Brooklyn’s community gardens, Sonja is deeply committed to building a more climate-resilient future.
