Fact Check: The Truth About Wind and Whales

Opponents of offshore wind have wrongly blamed the renewable energy for recent whale strandings and deaths. Wind turbines do not cause whale deaths! 

Here are the facts:

In 2017 the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) declared an “unusual whale mortality event” for whales. This designation was based on data that showed a steep increase in deceased whales in 2016 and 2017 washing up on America’s shores. This event began prior to offshore wind siting in the US. Misinformation about a connection between offshore wind development harming whales is simply wrong. This misconception is not based on scientific facts.

Wind surveys do not kill whales 
When NOAA declared an unusual whale mortality event in 2017 there was no offshore wind project approved in NY or NJ and it was long before offshore wind survey work was conducted. A second misconception is that offshore wind survey work requires the same exploratory equipment as natural gas and oil companies. This is simply not true.  Oil and gas exploration requires seismic air guns that penetrate deep into the sea floor. Seismic air guns create one of the loudest man-made sounds in the ocean that damages marine life, including whales. The sound can travel several miles through the ocean at 220-250 decibels. Blasts are repeated as often as every 10 seconds for days and weeks. 

Offshore wind surveying uses sound waves known as High Resolution Geophysical (HRG). These surveys use higher frequencies than those used in seismic air guns and image smaller structures with a high level of detail. Additionally, most of the equipment for these surveys cannot be heard by humpback whales. According to the Bureau of Ocean and Energy Management “physical attributes of HRG sources-such as beamwidth, exposure duration, and frequency – make them significantly unlikely to result in harm of marine mammals.” 

So what is causing the whale deaths?
Scientists are working to understand the cause of increased whale strandings. The two most common species impacted are Minke Whales and Humpback whales. When whales die, they undergo what is called a necropsy to determine the cause of death. These procedures are challenging when dealing with a 25-ton marine mammal, many of which are in various stages of decomposition. Scientists tell us that Minke Whales are showing signs of infection around the heart area, and 40% of Humpback whales are showing clear signs of ship strikes. Another cause of death is entanglement with commercial fishing gear which weighs down whales, decreases their mobility, and results in a diminished ability to feed.  

Many scientists believe that whales are here in greater numbers due to changing water temperatures and an increase in bait fish off our shores. The bait fish are a beloved food source for whales, but this food source may be leading whales into shipping lanes making them vulnerable to ship strikes. Also, according to the Port Authority there had been a 35% increase in ships from 2019 into New York Harbor, adding another serious threat to whales.

How do we protect whales?
We know that ship strikes, along with commercial fishing are a real threat to whales. Over 20 environmental groups have called on Congress to allocate $20 million for better whale monitoring, which would help decrease ship strikes, and to fund marine mammal response and necropsy efforts. 

One of the greatest threats to not only whales but all wildlife and our oceans is climate change. Warming temperatures, ocean acidification, changing food webs, and altered migration and feeding habits put whales at greater risk. One thing we can do locally is support the transition off fossil fuels and towards renewable energy, which will decrease local ocean acidification in our local waterways, protect local marine species and fisheries, and help combat global climate change. Offshore wind is the solution, not the problem.

If you want more information, check out:

• Lunch and Learn: Whale Tales and Whale Facts, click here.

• Offshore Wind & Whale Protection factsheet, click here.

• Understanding Ocean Sounds & Whales factsheet, click here.

• Fight Climate Change with Offshore Wind factsheet, click here.

• Offshore Wind Future, Long Beach Herald. July, 2023, click here.

Sincerely,
All of us at CCE

CCE’s Environmental Equinox Awards Gala

Join us September 27, 2023 to Celebrate 38 Years of Grassroots Advocacy! 

For more details and to Purchase tickets  https://www.citizenscampaign.org/annual-gala 

Get ready to join CCE for our Environmental Equinox Awards Gala to celebrate over three and half decades of grassroots accomplishments and our 2023 honorees. CCE is excited to honor Doreen Harris, President of New York State Energy and Research Authority (NYSERDA) for her dedication and leadership in prioritizing renewable energy and fighting climate change. CCE is also honoring Danielle Campbell, Journalist & Environmental Reporter for her dedication to protecting our environment and public health for 3 decades! Her influential reporting and media coverage on Long Island’s environment have educated the public and impacted positive changes throughout Long Island communities. These leaders have changed New York for the better and will make our island more sustainable and livable for years to come.

• When: Wednesday, September 27, 2023, 6:00pm–10:00pm

• Where: The Piermont, 494 Fire Island Ave, Babylon, NY

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Sponsorship opportunities are available.
Visit https://www.citizenscampaign.org/annual-gala 
Please contact Maureen at 516-390-7150 or mmurphy@citizenscampaign.org

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The equinox is the time of year when the sun crosses the equator and the length of the day equals the length of the night on all parts of the earth. The equinox is a symbol of achieving environmental and societal harmony.

 Thank you for your support. Together we make a difference!
Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

Help Save the Bees!

Join the Online Action Party & Urge Governor Hochul to Sign the Birds & Bees Protection Act into law!

On Wednesday, August 30, join an online Climate Action Party to save the bees! The NYS Legislature recently passed the Birds and Bees Protection Act, which was a huge step forward in protecting our pollinators from one of the most dangerous and toxic pesticides, known as neonics. Now we need your help in urging Governor Hochul to sign this monumental legislation into law. Tune in and take action! This event is free and open to the public, get your tickets TODAY!

Date: Wednesday, August 30, 2023
Time: 7:00pm – 8:00pm

Neonics are proving to be the most environmentally harmful pesticide since DDT. The Birds and Bees Protection Act would ban neonic treated corn, soybean, and wheat seeds, as well as cosmetic uses of neonics on lawns and golf courses. This will eliminate at least 85% - 90% of all neonics used in New York, protect water quality, and ensure we are not poisoning our birds, bees, and pollinators with this toxic pesticide.

Hear from an expert panel on the immense impacts neonics have on our pollinators, public health, and environment. You’ll hear from Dr. Kathy Nolan from Physicians for Social Responsibility, the Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter’s Caitlan Ferrante, and Dan Raichel from the Natural Resources Defense Council. During this event we’ll all take substantive actions using the free Climate Action Now App to ensure the Governor does the right thing and signs this nation-leading legislation. Register today and help protect our birds, bees, and pollinators!

Thank you for joining us!
Sincerely,
All of us at CCE

Learn more about the $4.2 Billion Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Bond Act

Photo by Maddy Weiss on Unsplash

NYS agencies are hosting a series of listening sessions on the Bond Act. Attend and find out more about this once-in-a-generation opportunity to protect our coastal communities, combat climate change, preserve open space, upgrade our outdated drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, and support a green economy.

The $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Bond Act was approved by voters last November. This funding will allow our state to undertake urgently needed environmental improvement projects that are vital to New York’s future and provide necessary and overdue investments to solve pressing public health and environmental problems. This funding will:

• Protect drinking water and upgrade outdated infrastructure

• Safeguard communities from flooding and extreme weather

• Conserve open space and family farms

• Fight climate change

• Advance environmental justice

• Strengthen New York’s economy and create over 100,000 jobs

Join a listening session to learn more about the benefits of the Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Bond Act. There will also be an opportunity to weigh in with your ideas on how to best use this funding!

See upcoming locations and times below. Click here to register for a listening session.

White Plains
Tuesday, August 15, from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Westchester County Center
198 Central Ave, White Plains, NY

Bronx 
Tuesday, August 22, from 6:00 - 8:00pm
La Central YMCA Gymnasium
434 Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY

Brentwood
Thursday, August 24, from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Suffolk County Community College, Suffolk Credit Union Arena
Crooked Hill Rd, Brentwood, NY

Thank you for joining us!

Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

Want to be Part of a New Public Health Study on 1,4-Dioxane?

CCE, Senator Anthony Palumbo, and the Yale Superfund Research Center will be hosting a free community meeting on August 9th to discuss the impacts of 1,4-dioxane and Yale’s new health study on Long Island

1,4-Dioxane is an emerging contaminant of concern in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. This chemical, referred to as a "forever chemical," has been used in industrial practices and was found in 80% of common household products tested, including shampoo, body wash, laundry detergent, baby products, and dish soap. The EPA has listed 1,4-dioxane as a carcinogen, but its effects on public health are still not well known. Unfortunately, Long Island has some of the highest levels of 1,4-dioxane in drinking water in the nation.

The Yale Superfund Research Center is in the initial phase of investigating 1,4-dioxane exposure on human health in Long Island communities. CCE has partnered with Yale Superfund Research Center in a 1,4-dioxane health study for Long Island residents. This study seeks to engage Long Island residents to better understand the impact of 1,4-dioxane exposure on public health. We will be recruiting community members to participate in this drinking water and blood sample study. 

To learn more about this groundbreaking study, please join our Community Meeting with Senator Anthony Palumbo and the Yale Superfund Research Center. Register here

When: Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at 6:30 PM
Where: Riverhead Free Library, 330 Court St, Riverhead, NY 

Thank you for joining us!

Sincerely,
All of Us at CCE

SAVE THE BEES!

Photo by Dmitry Grigoriev on Unsplash

Tell Governor Hochul to Ban Toxic Neonic Pesticides in New York!

After years of hard work and advocacy, the NYS Legislature recently passed the Birds and Bees Protection Act! If signed into law, it would ban the most harmful and unnecessary uses of toxic neonicotinoid (“neonic”) pesticides. Neonic pesticides not only kill bees at an alarming rate, but they also pollute our water, kill wildlife, and threaten public health. Now we need YOUR help to urge Governor Hochul to sign this monumental legislation into law!

The Birds and Bees Protection Act (S.1856A/A.7640) would ban the most harmful and unnecessary uses of toxic neonic pesticides. The Act bans neonic treated corn, soybean, and wheat seeds and bans cosmetic uses (e.g. lawns, gardens, golf courses). This will eliminate at least 85% - 90% of all neonics used in New York, protect water quality, and ensure we are not poisoning our birds, bees, and other pollinators with this toxic pesticide. We need Governor Hochul to sign this crucial legislation into law! Email Governor Hochul today and urge her to sign the Birds and Bees Protection Act.

Watch the video message from our Executive Director, Adrienne Esposito, calling for the Governor to sign this critical bill into law

Additional Background Information:

Pollinators, such as honeybees, butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds, are essential components of our food web. Massive bee die-off events and colony collapse disorder are putting our ecosystem and food production at risk. This rise in bee deaths has been largely linked to the explosive growth in the use of neonics and other harmful pesticides. Neonics are pesticides that attack the nervous system of insects. These pesticides are largely added as a seed coating to plants, such as corn, wheat, and soybeans and are used as a spray for ornamental plants and turf grass. As a seed coating these chemicals persist and spread as the plant grows, making the entire plant toxic to bees and other pollinators.

Neonics are also threatening New York’s waters. A 2018 U.S. Fish and Wildlife study found neonics in New York’s streams “in excess of toxicity and regulatory thresholds.” Additionally, extensive testing of New York’s surface waters by the USGS in 2016, found the neonic imidacloprid in nearly 40% of samples. There are currently 117 pesticides found in Long Island’s groundwater, with neonics being one of the most prevalent pesticides detected. Neonics are persistent in our water and environment, posing a serious threat to health and pollinators.

Corn, soy, and wheat treated seeds account for an estimated 73% of all neonics used in New York.  The use of neonics on lawns, gardens, and ornamental plants (aka cosmetic uses) make up an additional 15%. A 2020 report by Cornell University found that neonic treated corn, soy, and wheat seeds provide "no overall net income benefits" to farmers yet pose significant risk to bees and other pollinators. Likewise, cosmetic uses pose a high risk to pollinators but are easily replaced with safer alternatives. These uses are unnecessary and must be banned to protect our pollinators, water, and health.

Thank you! Together we can make a difference.

Sincerely,
All of Us at CCE

Weigh in on the Future of the Great Lakes!

Image by dsurver from Pixabay

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is developing a plan to protect and restore the Great Lakes and they need to hear from you!

New York’s Great Lakes are a valuable resource that we rely on for our drinking water, recreation, tourism, economic development, and a healthy environment. Since 2010, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) has been providing federal funding to address the biggest threats to the Great Lakes. Investments have been made in successful efforts to restore habitats, address invasive species, clean up toxic hot spots, reduce pollution at the source, and more! While investments from the GLRI have yielded many successes, there is still work to be done.

The EPA is currently developing Action Plan IV, which will guide GLRI restoration efforts over the next 5 years (2024 - 2028) and will help determine how billions of dollars in federal investments will be allocated. We need to make sure that the updated plan continues progress on existing priorities while also including critical updates to address additional challenges.

There are three opportunities to weigh in with the EPA:

1. Attend an in-person public engagement session (for those near the Rochester area): On Wednesday, July 19, the U.S. EPA is hosting an in person public engagement session in Rochester, NY. At the session, the EPA will provide an overview of the GLRI and Action Plan IV, and then the public will be able to ask questions and provide comments. Join us at this engagement session to learn more about the GLRI and have your voice heard on what needs to be done to protect New York’s Great Lakes. This engagement session is free and open to the public.

Date: Wednesday, July 19, 2023
Time: 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Location: Rochester Museum and Science Center, 657 East Ave.

2. Submit a comment to the EPA via email! Use our email template and feel free to add your own suggestions and concerns.

3. Attend a virtual public engagement session: For those unable to make an in-person session, EPA will be holding an online public engagement session on Wednesday, August 23, 6pm – 8pm (EST). Register here.

Talking Points for Weighing in on Action Plan IV

• We need to continue and accelerate existing steps to revitalize public, economic, and Great Lakes ecosystem health.

• Two critical updates that we urge the EPA to highlight in Action Plan IV include:

1. Invest in climate change resiliency – Climate change is already impacting the Great Lakes and our communities. Investments in restoring Great Lakes coastal habitat, wetlands, and floodplains are examples of climate change resiliency projects that improve the regions’ ability to withstand the effects of climate change, while also improving the health of the ecosystem.

2. Make investments that promote equity – Often communities that are low-income and communities of color are disproportionately impacted by pollution and environmental degradation. Investments in the GLRI have accelerated restoration across the Great Lakes—these investments should ensure that communities most impacted also benefit from restoration efforts.

Thank you for taking action!

Sincerely,
Your Friends at CCE

HELP PROTECT AND RESTORE SUFFOLK COUNTY’S DRINKING WATER, BEACHES, BAYS, LAKES AND ESTUARIES

Tell the Suffolk County Legislature to let the public vote on a critical clean water ballot referendum this November

Nitrogen pollution from sewage is responsible for massive fish kills, turtle die offs, toxic algal blooms, and beach closings across Suffolk County. Long Island's clean waters create jobs and generate millions of dollars every year for our regional economy and tourism industry. Nitrogen pollution is adversely impacting our environment, health, economy, and quality of life. The science is clear; the majority of nitrogen pollution in our local waterways comes from outdated sewage and septic systems. We need to upgrade our sewage infrastructure to restore the health of Suffolk County’s waterways and that costs money!

This year’s New York State budget included language allowing Suffolk County to advance a ballot referendum that will allow residents to vote on clean water funding. If the Suffolk County Legislature votes to put this issue on the ballot, residents will be able to decide this November if an increase of 1/8 cent in the county sales tax should be dedicated to protecting water resources by expanding and upgrading sewers and installing upgraded nitrogen-removing septic systems to replace antiquated cesspools and septic systems. We need the Suffolk County Legislature to pass legislation that will let the voters decide on clean water this November.

We need you! Please join us at the Suffolk Legislature to show up, stand up, and speak up in favor of I.R. 1512-2023 and I.R. 1573-2023 to create a unified wastewater management district and to let the public vote on a clean water referendum.

Date:    
Wednesday, June 21, 2023

Time:    
Rally for Clean Water at 3:30pm; Public Hearing at 6:30pm

Where:  
Suffolk County Legislature
Evans K. Griffing Building
300 Center Drive, Riverhead, NY

If you cannot attend the meeting, you can still make your voice heard. Email your Suffolk County Legislator today. Urge them to support 1512-2023 and 1573-2023. Let the public vote on clean water this November.

Background

Suffolk is 74% unsewered, with 360,000 homes relying on antiquated septic and cesspool technology to treat wastewater. The impacts of nitrogen pollution from inadequately treated sewage are appearing in virtually every bay, harbor, freshwater lake, and pond in the county.

The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) cites algal blooms and nitrogen from sewage as the primary reasons many LI water bodies are impaired. The numerous fish and turtle die-offs in our estuaries over the last decade were found to be caused mainly by nitrogen pollution from sewage. Moreover, some toxic algal blooms constitute a serious threat to human health, such as Blue-Green Algae in lakes and ponds and Red Tide in several harbors. Long Island has the greatest frequency of Blue-Green Algae in the entire state.

After years of study, Suffolk County released a plan which details the sources of nitrogen pollution entering all 191 sub-watersheds in the county and provides a pathway to restoring our waterways to a healthy condition. The study found the primary cause of nitrogen pollution in our waterways to be sewage from antiquated sewers and septic systems. The Sub watersheds Plan provides a pathway to replace outdated cesspools and septic systems with advanced on-site systems and, where appropriate, improving and expanding sewer systems.  The longer we wait to implement these changes, the more expensive and difficult our water quality problems will be to fix.

To fully implement this plan, we will need a unified wastewater management district and dedicated funding stream to implement these clean water projects.

Thank you for taking action!

Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

Pass Critical Environmental Legislation in New York State Before Session Ends on June 8!

Help Us Pass Two Top Priority Bills to Save the Bees and Address the Solid Waste Crisis!

The NYS legislative session comes to an end on June 8th, and we only have a few legislative session days left to pass two of our priority bills; the Birds and Bees Protection Act and the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act. We need your help in calling on the NYS Legislature and urging them to pass these monumental bills. Email your elected officials today and tell them to pass these critical bills this session!

The Birds and Bees Protection Act (S.1856A/A.7640) would ban neonicotinoid (“neonic”) treated corn, soybean, and wheat seeds and ban cosmetic lawn and garden neonic uses. This will eliminate at least 85% - 90% of all neonics used in New York, protect water quality, and ensure we are not poisoning our birds, bees, and pollinators from this toxic pesticide. The rise in bee deaths has been largely linked to the explosive growth in the use of neonic pesticides. Across New York, neonics are common contaminants found in groundwater and pose a threat to our drinking water. The NYS Assembly has already passed this legislation, now we need NY Senators to vote yes and ensure this crucial legislation gets passed this year!

The Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act (S.4246/A.5322) would require manufacturers – not taxpayers – to be responsible for the cost of collecting and recycling the packaging waste they create. This will reduce packaging waste, increase recycling, eliminate toxic chemicals in packaging, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and save local taxpayers over $400 million annually! New York State is suffering from a solid waste and recycling crisis and has a recycling rate of just 17%. Most of the waste is ending up as litter in communities, plastic pollution in our waterways, sent to landfills, or burned in trash incinerators. We need the NYS Legislature to pass this critical legislation and hold manufacturers responsible for the waste they create!

Email your elected officials TODAY and tell them to pass the Birds and Bees Protection Act and the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act this year!

Thank you! Together we can make a difference.
All of Us at CCE

Want to Learn More About Offshore Wind on Long Island?

Join us for a free educational forum with Q&A with experts—topics include the environment, whales, labor, and EMFs

There are currently 5 offshore wind projects selected for New York which will power over 2 million homes in New York City and Long Island. Each project is moving through the regulatory process. We know that the public has questions, and we want to provide a forum to provide science and fact-based answers. There will be an opportunity for the public to ask questions after the presentations.

When:
Wednesday, May 24, 2023 from 7:00-9:00 pm

Where:
Long Beach City Hall, 1 W Chester St, Long Beach, NY

Speakers/Topics:

• Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment – Offshore Wind Coming to New York State

• Rob DiGiovanni, Atlantic Marine Conservation Society – Marine Mammal Protection

• Dr. Ben Cotts, PhD, Principle Engineer, Exponent – EMFs

• Ryan Stanton, Executive Director, Long Island Federation of Labor &

• Matthew Aracich, President, Nassau and Suffolk County Building Trades Association – Labor Benefits and Job Opportunities

• *The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) will also be at the event to provide additional information.

Register: Click here

Thank you for joining us!

Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

SAVE THE BEES!

Ban Dangerous and Unnecessary Uses of Toxic Neonic Pesticides in New York!

The NYS Assembly has passed the Birds and Bees Protection Act! This is a huge step forward in protecting our pollinators from a dangerous and toxic pesticide—neonicotinoids (aka “neonics”). Neonics kill bees, pollute our water, and threaten public health! Now we need your help in calling on the NYS Senate and urging them to pass this monumental legislation. We need your help—there are only a few weeks left to pass this bill!

Email your New York State Senator TODAY and tell them to vote YES and pass the Birds and Bees Protection Act!

The Birds and Bees Protection Act (S.1856/A.3226) would ban neonic treated corn, soybean, and wheat seeds, as well as cosmetic uses on lawn and gardens in New York State. This will eliminate at least 85% - 90% of all neonics used in New York, protect water quality, and ensure we are not poisoning our birds, bees, and pollinators with this toxic pesticide. Here on Long Island, neonics are common contaminants found in groundwater and pose a threat to our sole-source aquifer system. We need our Long Island State Senators to vote yes and ensure this crucial legislation gets passed this year. There are only a few weeks of legislative session left—we cannot wait any longer!

Background:

Pollinators, such as honeybees, butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds, are essential components of our food web. Massive bee die-off events and colony collapse disorder are putting our ecosystem and food production at risk. This rise in bee deaths has been largely linked to the explosive growth in the use of neonics and other harmful pesticides. Neonics are pesticides that attack the nervous system of insects. These pesticides largely added as a seed coating to plants, such as corn, wheat, and soybeans and used as a spray for ornamental plants and turf. As a seed coating these chemicals persist and spread as the plant grows, making the entire plant toxic to bees and other pollinators.

Neonics are also threatening New York’s waters. A 2018 U.S. Fish and Wildlife study found neonics in New York’s streams “in excess of toxicity and regulatory thresholds.” Additionally, extensive testing of New York’s surface waters by the USGS in 2016 found the neonic imidacloprid in nearly 40% of samples. There are currently 117 pesticides found in Long Island’s groundwater, with neonics being one of the most prevalent pesticides detected.  Neonics are persistent in our water and environment, posing a serious threat to health and pollinators.

Corn, soy, and wheat treated seeds account for an estimated 73% of all neonics used in New York.  Lawn, garden, ornamental, and turf (aka cosmetic) uses make up an additional 15%. A 2020 report by Cornell University found that neonic treated corn, soy, and wheat seeds provide "no overall net income benefits" to farmers yet pose significant risk to bees and other pollinators. Likewise, cosmetic uses pose a high risk to pollinators but are easily replaced with safer alternatives. These uses are unnecessary and must be banned to protect our pollinators.

Thank you for taking action!

Sincerely,
All of Us at CCE

Join us for a Free Offshore Wind Educational Forum

Join CCE on May 24th at 7:00pm at Long Beach City Hall for a free educational forum on offshore wind. There are currently 5 offshore wind projects selected for New York which will power over 2 million homes in New York City and Long Island. Each project is moving through the regulatory process.  We know that the public has questions, and we want to provide a forum to provide science and fact-based answers. Join us for presentations followed by a Q&A with experts on topics including the environment, whales, labor, and EMFs.

When: Wednesday, May 24, from 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Where: Long Beach City Hall. Register today for this free educational forum

Thank you for joining us.
Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

Learn about Empire Wind!

Equinor is hosting community meetings in Island Park and Long Beach on this exciting offshore wind project

The Empire Wind 1 and 2 wind projects, which will be located off the south shore of Long Island, will power over a million homes with renewable energy. Offshore wind is crucial to assisting New York’s transition away from fossil fuels. It is important that the community is informed and has the ability to ask questions about these projects.

Empire Wind 1 will connect to the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal and power homes in NYC, while Empire Wind 2 will power 600,000+ Long Island homes with renewable energy. The cable connection for Empire Wind 2 is currently scheduled to go through the City of Long Beach to a substation in Island Park.

Equinor is hosting open houses in Long Beach and Island Park to educate Long Islanders about the Empire Wind projects and the Empire Wind 2 cable connection into Nassau County. These meetings are free and open to the public.

Date: Wednesday, May 3, 2023 
Time: 11:00am – 2:00pm; 4:00pm – 8:00pm  
Location: Bridgeview Yacht Club, 80 Waterfront Blvd, Island Park, NY
RSVP: Click here to register

Date: Thursday, June 8, 2023 
Time: 11:00am – 2:00pm; 4:00pm – 8:00pm  
Location: Allegria Hotel, 80 W Broadway, Long Beach, NY
RSVP: Click here to register

These open houses will provide an overview of the project and the role it will play in helping Long Island move from fossil fuels to offshore wind. The events will be an opportunity to learn about project details and permitting process, meet the project team, and engage with the experts. We hope to see you there!

Thank you for joining us!
Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

The Yale Superfund Research Center and CCE are Partnering to Understand the Impacts of 1,4-Dioxane Contamination on Long Island Residents and Communities

Photo by RODNAE Productions: https://www.pexels.com/photo/boy-holding-a-ball-while-drinking-from-water-fountain-8337476/

CCE is working to educate Long Island community members on how they can participate in the Yale Superfund Research Center’s study, which is being funding by the National Institute for Environmental Health and Sciences

1,4-Dioxane is an emerging contaminant of concern found in drinking water throughout the nation, including water supplies in Long Island. In fact, water suppliers in Nassau and Suffolk Counties have reported the highest levels of 1,4-dioxane contamination in the nation. Research is needed to understand the impacts of 1-4-dioxane contamination on Long Island’s residents and communities.

Learn more about the Yale Superfund Research Center Study
The Yale Superfund Research Center is in the initial phase of further investigating 1,4 dioxane exposure on human health in Long Island communities through studies of exposure and health. Its initial community sites include Nassau and Suffolk Counties, where high levels of 1,4-dioxane have been previously found in public supplies and private wells. We are working to educate community members on how to participate in this drinking water and blood sample study (with incentives). Ultimately the goal is to enhance understanding by partnering with the community in its investigation and sharing results as widely as possible.

We need your help—get involved!
If you would like to learn more about 1,4-dioxane in your community, how to get involved in community action and education, and learn about the Yale Superfund Research Center’s research study, please sign up here to learn more! If you need assistance or have any questions, feel free to call us at 516-390-7150.

More info on 1,4-dioxane and the Yale Study
CCE co-hosted a Lunch and Learn virtual forum with Yale University on 1,4-dioxane contamination on Long Island and the new study. Check out the video to learn:

• The latest science on drinking water and health impacts of 1,4-dioxane

• More information on the large quantities of 1,4-dioxane in popular products

• The new partnership between Yale and CCE and the health study to begin this year for Long Islanders

In case you missed it, check out Newsday’s great coverage of recent exemptions for hidden carcinogen 1,4-dioxane in consumer products and the Yale health study on Long Island.

Additional Background on 1,4-Dioxane

What is 1,4-dioxane and why should I be concerned?
1,4-Dioxane, known as one of the “forever chemicals,” is an emerging contaminant of concern found in drinking water throughout the nation, including water supplies in Long Island. Past industrial practices that discharged 1,4- dioxane into the ground and eventually seeped into the Long Island aquifers have contaminated our public water supplies and private wells. The EPA has established that 1,4-dioxane is likely carcinogenic to humans. Exposure to this chemical is linked to tumors of the liver, gallbladder, nasal cavity, lung, skin, and breast.

Is there 1,4-dioxane in my community?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) tested 4,400 water supply systems nationwide and Long Island was found to have some of the highest levels of 1,4-dioxane detection in the US, with some water systems in both Nassau and Suffolk containing levels over 100 times the EPA’s cancer risk guideline of 0.35 parts per billion (ppb). View CCE’s interactive map that shows the highest detections of 1,4-dioxane in each water district/distribution area across Long Island.

Exposure to 1,4-dioxane most likely occurs through drinking contaminated water, however, it may also be inhaled or absorbed through skin. 1,4-Dioxane is also found in everyday products, not as an additive or enhancer, but rather as an unwanted byproduct of the manufacturing process. CCE conducted independent testing of common household products and found 1,4-dioxane in 80% of personal care products, including baby products, shampoos, body wash, dish soaps and laundry detergents.

What is New York doing about 1,4-dioxane?  Is there more to be done?
New York is a leader in combatting 1,4-dioxane and currently has the strictest enforceable drinking water standard in the nation at 1 ppb. Water suppliers are required to remove this emerging contaminant and many Long Island water suppliers have already invested in and installed Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP), a technology designed for the removal of this carcinogen. New York State is also a leader in banning 1,4-dioxane in personal care products. A law passed in NY requires manufacturers to reduce 1,4-dioxane down to 2 parts per million (ppm) by January of 2023 and down to 1 ppm or below by 2024.

There is more to be done! Long Islanders have been exposed to this harmful chemical for decades. 1,4-Dioxane is still unregulated at the federal level and EPA says more research is needed on the environmental and human health impacts of exposure to fully understand the long-term impacts of 1,4-dioxane.

Thank you for taking action!

Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

Protect Our Drinking Water from Dangerous “Forever Chemicals”

Photo by Lisa Fotios: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-holding-drinking-glass-1346155/

Support Strong National Drinking Water Standards for PFAS Chemicals

In recent years, communities across New York, Connecticut and the nation have discovered their drinking water sources are contaminated with harmful PFAS chemicals. PFAS are referred to as “forever chemicals” because they are very persistent, meaning they build up in our bodies and don’t break down in the environment. New science indicates that there is no safe level of exposure to PFAS in our drinking water and we must do more to protect public health from this growing threat.

In order to protect drinking water and public health, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed the first nationwide enforceable limits on the amount of six highly toxic PFAS chemicals allowed in drinking water.

EPA is now accepting public comment on the proposed drinking water regulations. Polluters will undoubtedly push to weaken these proposed regulations—EPA must stand firm and adopt these strong, health-protective standards! Adopting these drinking water standards will protect drinking water in New York, Connecticut and throughout the nation and prevent thousands of premature deaths. Submit a comment to EPA before the public comment period closes on May 30th!

Background

What is PFAS?
Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of thousands of manufactured chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products for many decades, due to their non-stick, grease-resistant and waterproof properties. PFAS are used in cookware, packaging, clothing, furniture, adhesives, paint, firefighting foam, artificial turf, and other products. According to the U.S. EPA, there are at least 3,500 industrial sites across New York and 900 sites across Connecticut that may be handling or using PFAS chemicals.

PFAS Pollutes our Environment and Drinking Water
Due to widespread use of PFAS chemicals in numerous products and industries, PFAS chemicals have become ubiquitous in the environment, including our soil, air, and drinking water. Testing has revealed PFAS in water sources in communities across New York, Connecticut, and the nation.

PFAS Threatens our Health
Studies show that human exposure to PFAS is widespread and that nearly all people in the United States have some PFAS compounds in their blood. Exposure to PFAS can lead to higher rates of kidney and testicular cancer, higher cholesterol levels, thyroid problems, adverse developmental effects and decreased immune response in children, and other adverse health impacts.

New Science Indicates That There is No Safe Level of Exposure to PFAS
Based on a growing body of new science, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) updated its drinking water health advisory for two types of PFAS chemicals, PFOS and PFOA. Drinking water health advisories indicate the amount of a chemical in drinking water that is expected to cause adverse health impacts. The EPA significantly reduced the health advisory from 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for both PFOA and PFOS down to a mere .004 ppt for PFOA and .02 ppt for PFOS. This means that there is essentially no safe level of exposure to these chemicals in our drinking water!

EPA Proposes Strong National Drinking Water Standards
Following the update of health advisories, EPA has now proposed the first nationwide enforceable limits on the amount of six highly toxic PFAS chemicals allowed in drinking water. For PFOA and PFOS, EPA proposed individual drinking water limits of 4 ppt per chemical. For the other four PFAS (PFNA, PFBS, PFHxS, and GenX), EPA proposed an enforceable limit designed to address those chemicals’ combined effects as a mixture. While we want to ultimately eliminate PFAS in drinking water, EPA’s proposed standards represent the strongest standards that are currently technically feasible.

Thank you for taking action!
Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

Missed the Virtual Forum? Watch the Video of the Educational Forum on Whale Protection

Hear from the experts about whale strandings and deaths and what we can do to protect whales

Since 2016, we have witnessed an increase in whale strandings and whale deaths off the coast of America’s shores. These endangered species are under threat from several sources, including ship strikes, fishing gear, plastic pollution, and climate change. Unfortunately, misinformation about whale deaths and an association with offshore wind development has led to concerns about transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy. These local wind projects are crucial to combat climate change, which is not only a threat to whales but also to marine mammals, fisheries, and our communities.

Citizens Campaign for the Environment, NY League of Conservation Voters and NY Offshore Wind Alliance hosted a virtual educational forum with whale experts from Atlantic Marine Conservation Society, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the US Bureau of Ocean Energy Management. Thank you to the almost 400 people who joined us for these great presentations and a lively Q &A. If you missed it, check out the video to learn more about the recent whale strandings and deaths, what is being done on the local, state, and federal level to protect whales.

Thank you for watching!
Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

Lunch and Learn Virtual Presentation: 1,4-Dioxane Contamination on Long Island

Learn about the hidden carcinogen 1,4-dioxane and how this emerging contaminant impacts you, your family and your community

Learn about Yale’s new health study for Long Islanders

1,4-Dioxane is a toxic contaminant found in drinking water throughout our nation, including water supplies on Long Island. This hidden carcinogen was also found in 80% of personal care products that CCE had independently tested, including shampoos, bath gels, dish soap, laundry detergent, and baby products. Due to CCE’s work, NY State has adopted a law to limit the amount of 1,4-dioxane in household products. The law went into effect this year, however, the list of products that are deferred from complying is extensive!    

In addition, we are excited to announce that CCE has partnered with the Yale Superfund Research Center!  Yale Superfund Research Center has crafted a study to better understand the impact of 1,4-dioxane exposure on Long Island residents. CCE is providing education and outreach to inform Long Islanders about this new, exciting program. Find out how you can participate in Yale’s health study on 1,4-dioxane.   

Join us to learn more about:

• The latest science on drinking water and health impacts of 1,4-dioxane

• More information on the large quantities of 1,4-dioxane in popular products

• The new partnership between Yale and CCE and the health study to begin this year for Long Islanders

When: Monday, April 24, from 12:00pm – 1:00pm

Who:    Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, CCE
Dr. Nicole Deziel, Associate Professor of Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health

Where: Via Zoom. Register today for this free virtual Lunch and Learn.

Thank you for joining us.
Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

Clean Water Video Series: Progress and Challenges in New York

On World Water Day, we look at what protecting clean water looks like in New York State

March 22nd is World Water Day, and to celebrate, we are releasing a video series on the progress and challenges associated with protecting NY’s water resources. From Long Island to the Finger Lakes to the Great Lakes, significant efforts have been made to protect and restore our treasured waters, and this video series provides a glimpse into our progress.

New York has an abundance of water resources that we rely on for drinking water, recreation, tourism, and a heathy environment. Major investments have been made in successful efforts to restore our waterbodies, combat harmful algal blooms, address emerging contaminants, and so much more.

We’ve produced six short videos that highlight what successful water quality protection projects look like and the many benefits they provide to New York. Learn more about the work that has been done to protect New York’s treasured waters, the work left to do, and why we need continued state and federal investments in protecting clean water in New York!

Videos in this series include:

• The Big Picture on Clean Water: Progress and Challenges in New York

• Great Lakes Success Story: Green Infrastructure in the City of Buffalo

• Great Lakes Success Story: Upgrading Erie County’s Southtowns Wastewater Treatment Plant

• Great Lakes Success Story: Nature Based Solutions to Protect Lake Ontario

• Combating Harmful Algal Blooms on Cayuga Lake

• Removing Emerging Contaminants from Drinking Water

You can view the entire video series and more on CCE’s YouTube channel. If you enjoy these videos and others on our channel, please subscribe!

Sincerely,
Your Friends at CCE

Reduce Waste and Increase Recycling in New York

Hold manufacturers, not taxpayers, responsible for their waste. NYS must take action in the state budget—due April 1!

New York State is suffering from a solid waste and recycling crisis—recycling costs for municipalities and taxpayers have skyrocketed, recycling rates are abysmal, and our environment and health are suffering from pollution caused by excessive plastic packaging. Currently, corporate brand owners bear no responsibility in managing the product packaging waste they have created.

To help address this solid waste crisis, the Governor has included a Waste Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act in her executive budget proposal, while the NYS Senate has included an even stronger policy in their budget proposal. Both will require product manufacturers—not taxpayers—to be responsible for the cost of collecting and recycling the packaging and paper they create. Now the Governor, Senate, and Assembly must come together and agree on a strong waste reduction policy in the final budget that is due April 1!

A strong, effective waste reduction policy negotiated in the final state budget will:

• Reduce packaging waste by at least 50%

• Increase recycling rates up to 70%-80% (currently at 17%)

• Eliminate toxic chemicals in packaging, including PFAS and heavy metals

• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change

• Provide agency staff to ensure the law is implemented and enforced

• Save local governments/taxpayers across the state upwards of $1 billion annually!

Email your NYS Assemblymember, NYS Senator, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins. Urge the legislature to include a strong Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act in the final 2023-24 budget.

Thank you for taking action!
Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

Whale Tales and Whale Facts

Image by Brigitte Werner from Pixabay

Join us for an educational forum on whale protection: learn from the experts about threats to whales off NY’s coast and what we can do to protect these endangered species

Since 2016, we have witnessed an increase in whale strandings and whale deaths off of America’s shores. These endangered species are under threat from several sources, including ship strikes, fishing gear, plastic pollution, and climate change. Unfortunately, misinformation about whale deaths and an association with offshore wind development has led to concerns about transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy. These local wind projects are crucial to combat climate change, which is not only a threat to whales but also a threat to marine mammals, fisheries, and our communities.

Join us for this virtual educational forum to hear from experts and learn more about the recent whale strandings and deaths, and what is being done on the local, state, and federal level to protect whales. Presentations will be followed by Q&A.

When: Tuesday, April 4, 2023, from 12:00pm – 1:00pm zoom

Where: Via Zoom—register here

Who: Speakers include:

• Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment

• Julie Tighe, President, New York League of Conservation Voters

• Fred Zalcman, Director, New York Offshore Wind Alliance

• Dr. Jill Lewandowski, Director, Division of Environmental Assessment and Center for Marine Acoustics, US Bureau of Ocean Energy Management

• Robert DiGiovanni, Founder and Chief Scientist, Atlantic Marine Conservation Society

• Meghan Rickard, Marine Zoologist, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation

Thank you for joining us!
Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE