The best thing about Bloomberg’s climate conference in New York

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New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg just hosted 40 mayors from around the globe (and Bill Clinton) for a climate conference in New York. The chattering classes are all atwitter that Bloomberg is unveiling what might be important environmental positions for a possible presidential run.

And I, for one, think the mayors in attendance are doing a great deal of good, serious work on the issue—encouraging smart ideas on more efficient energy use, greener businesses, less traffic—and getting the private sector involved in a big way. These local actors have certainly been far more innovative and proactive in advancing these issues than most national leaders around the world. 

But my favorite moment from the conference, which was all about encouraging cities to be more energy conscious: During Bloomberg’s speech in Central Park, all the street lights were left on. In the middle of the afternoon.