Reimagining the industrial system is essential because of the region’s high rates of poverty, unemployment, and harm to the Harlem River caused by existing industrial activities. Since 1919, Harlem has been a prospective industrial area for a variety of reasons, including its proximity to water and extensive network of transit for the movement of goods and services. Additionally, the industries would benefit globally, attract capital to revitalize them, and strengthen their resilience against future challenges.

How this would benefit the neighborhood, the environment, and the Harlem River: People in the Bronx and Harlem have extremely low employment levels and low-paying occupations; these industries would help to change that. Changing the typology of industries to create an upcycling industry would have benefits such as reduced costs, better health outcomes, stronger supply networks, the creation of employment, and a decrease in carbon emissions.