If you care about affordable housing, the environment, or the future of your community, you won’t want to miss this video by Jerusalem Demsas of Vox. In her clear and compelling style, Demsas explains how restrictive housing policies—like single-family zoning and opposition to new development—are driving the housing crisis, increasing inequality, and harming the environment.
The video dives into key points:
- The Housing Shortage: Policies that limit housing options, like banning duplexes or apartments, make it harder for people to find affordable homes near jobs, schools, and services.
- The Environmental Impact: Restrictive zoning pushes development outward, leading to urban sprawl that destroys natural lands and increases car dependency.
- What Needs to Change: Demsas calls for policies that allow “missing middle” housing—like duplexes and triplexes—as well as better planning that prioritizes affordability, walkability, and sustainability.
At MountainTrue, we see firsthand how poor land-use decisions harm Western North Carolina’s forests, rivers, and communities. Tackling the housing crisis with smart, compact development is essential for protecting the places we love and ensuring everyone has access to affordable housing.
Watch Jerusalem Demsas’ video here: “Why Everywhere Wants Affordable Housing, but Nowhere Wants It Built”.
It’s a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand why housing matters—and what we can do to fix it. Together, we can build stronger, more sustainable, and equitable communities!