Annel Hernandez works on the Resilient Coastal Communities Project, and teaches environmental justice and climate resiliency at SIPA. Annel is currently the Director of Climate and Environmental Policy at the New York City Council representing District 37 and focusing on sanitation policy. Previously, Annel was the Associate Director of the New York City Environmental Justice Alliance. She worked on city and statewide climate policy issues, focusing on local advocacy and research that further equitable investments in coastal resiliency, green infrastructure, renewable energy, and resilient energy systems. Annel also worked on various coalition campaigns to push for more aggressive climate legislation with equity as a central focus. She conducts research on the benefits of an integrated climate resiliency approach and developing pathways to implementation in frontline communities. Annel also worked with the NYC Mayor’s Office of Economic Opportunity and the Urban Climate Change Research Network at the Earth Institute. A lifelong New Yorker and current resident of Bushwick, Brooklyn, she serves on the Board of Newtown Creek Alliance and previously with BK Rot. Annel received her BA in Political Science and Latino Studies from Fordham University, and her MPA in Energy and Environment from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs.
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