The math of the energy and digital transition is simple—more projects, built faster—but as wind, transmission, and data centers expand across farmland and ecosystems, earning a durable “social license to operate” can be a challenge. With rural regions often facing uneven negotiating power, limited capacity, and uncertain tradeoffs, tools like Community Benefit Agreements (CBAs) and community investment strategies are critical—but only if they are well-designed and enforceable.
Speakers:
- Kristina Costa, Managing Director for Policy and Strategic Engagement, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth
- Abre’ Conner, Director, Center for Environmental and Climate Justice
- Manish Bapna, President and CEO, NRDC
- Peter Colavito, Executive Director, Invest in Our Future
This event took place at Aspen Ideas: Climate 2026.