"There should be a moral principle there that says, let's green the ghetto first. Let's go to those communities where they have the least ability to pay for that retrofit and make sure they get that help, make sure they get that support. And give the young people standing on those corners the opportunity to put down those handguns and pick up some caulking guns and be a part of the solution"

In this quote, Van Jones is advocating for an ethical concept that prioritizes assisting disadvantaged neighborhoods, specifically those in impoverished and disregarded areas, to become more environmentally friendly. He believes that these communities, who frequently have the least resources and ability to pay for environment-friendly upgrades, should be the first to get support and help in making their homes and neighborhoods more sustainable. By doing so, Jones argues that not only will these communities benefit from a much healthier and greener environment, but it will also provide opportunities for young people in these locations to be associated with the option and divert their attention away from violence. Overall, Jones is stressing the importance of resolving environmental concerns in marginalized communities and empowering the youth to be representatives of change.