Join Us for a Community Meeting on 1,4-Dioxane

CCE, Assemblywoman Taylor Darling, and the Yale Superfund Research Center will be hosting a free community meeting on January 25th to discuss the impacts of 1,4-dioxane in your community

Learn more about how you could potentially participate in Yale’s new health study looking at human exposure to this toxic chemical

1,4-Dioxane is an emerging contaminant of concern in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. This "forever chemical" has been used in industrial practices and was found in 80% of common household products that CCE had tested, including shampoo, body wash, laundry detergent, baby products, and dish soaps. 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 Assemblywoman Taylor Darling and the Yale Superfund Research Center. 

When: Thursday, January 25, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Where: Hempstead Public Library, 115 James A. Garner Way, Hempstead, NY

Please Register Today!

Thank you for joining us!

Sincerely, 
All of us at CCE

HELP PROTECT OUR LONG ISLAND SOUND

Congress Needs to Pass the Long Island Sound Restoration & Stewardship Reauthorization Act

As an Estuary of National Significance, the immense value of the Long Island Sound (LIS) cannot be overstated. Twenty million people live within 50 miles of the Sound’s beaches. Residents of New York and Connecticut depend on the Sound for recreational opportunities, including fishing, sailing, and swimming. LI Sound is a critical component to our regional economy, generating $8.25 billion annually.

Despite the Sound’s immense value, it has been degraded by pollution, toxic algae blooms, and other threats. However, we are making progress in the fight for clean water!  Funding provided by the Long Island Sound Restoration & Stewardship Act helps to advance restoration, however, problems persist. The Long Island Sound Restoration & Stewardship Act authorization expired in 2023—Congress must act immediately to reauthorize this critical legislation to maintain progress in restoring the health of the Long Island Sound.  Email your two U.S. Senators and representative in the U.S. today and urge them to support the Long Island Sound Restoration and Stewardship Reauthorization Act of 2023, which will provide up to $65 million annually through 2028.

Background

History of the Long Island Sound Restoration & Stewardship Act
In 1985, Congress created the Long Island Sound Study (LISS) to identify and address the major environmental problems affecting the Long Island Sound. The LISS is authorized at $40 million annually through the LIS Restoration Act. The LISS is a collaborative effort, which includes government agencies, not-for-profits, and individuals, all working to restore and protect the Sound and its watershed. Through the LISS, a bi-state Comprehensive Management Plan has been developed and is being implemented.

In 2006, Congress passed the Long Island Sound Stewardship Act, which is authorized at $25 million annually. This important legislation identifies key areas surrounding the Sound and provides funding for preservation and public access improvements.

These critically important acts were later combined to create the Long Island Sound Restoration & Stewardship Act, which provides up to $65 million annually in federal funding for LIS restoration. The Long Island Sound Stewardship and Restoration Act expired in 2023—it is critically important that Congress act now to reauthorize this important program!

Progress Has Been Made, but More Work Remains
Federal funding spurred progress in restoring the Sound—reducing nitrogen pollution, reducing hypoxia (low levels of oxygen that cannot sustain marine life), improving water quality, and restoring habitat throughout the LIS watershed. There have been 2,239 acres of coastal habitat restored, 5232.35 acres of ecologically important habitat preserved, and 432.9 miles of new fish passage created. Pods of dolphins can be spotted in the Sound during summer months, which is another key indicator of progress.

Although progress has been made, more needs to be done. Hypoxia still persists in summer months, toxic algae blooms are found in harbors and bays, nitrogen from antiquated septic systems are polluting waters, and polluted stormwater runoff continues to contaminate waters and close beaches.

LIS Funding is in Jeopardy
The Long Island Sound Restoration & Stewardship Act authorization expired in 2023, putting future funding for critical programs to protect and restore the Sound in limbo. Reauthorization of the LIS Restoration & Stewardship Act is needed to provide adequate funding to continue programs needed to protect public health, our local economy, and quality of life.       

The Long Island Sound Restoration & Stewardship Reauthorization Act of 2023, which would reauthorize the program at $65 million annually through 2028, was recently introduced in the House and Senate. Congress must pass this legislation immediately and fully fund the LIS program!

Thank you for taking action!

Sincerely,
All of us at CCE

Pollinators Protected in New York!

Image by Hans Benn from Pixabay

Governor Hochul signs bill to ban dangerous and unnecessary uses of neonic pesticides into law!

Scientists have documented a global decline in honeybee populations since 2006. 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 harmful neonicotinoid (A.K.A. “neonics”) pesticides. Not only do neonics threaten bee populations, but they are also very pervasive in soil and drinking water sources. To protect our pollinators, food production, and environment, New York has restricted the use of toxic neonics. 

New York Bans Dangerous and Unnecessary Uses of Neonics
Corn, soy, and wheat treated seeds account for an estimated 73% of all neonics used in New York, while 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 some of the highest risk to pollinators but are easily replaced with safer alternatives.

The Birds and Bees Protection Act (S.1856A/A.7640) bans the most dangerous and unnecessary uses of neonics in NY. This will eliminate at least 85% - 90% of all neonics used in New York, helping to protect water quality and ensure we are not poisoning birds, bees, and other pollinators. The European Union and parts of Canada have already banned many uses of neonics, and now New York has acted with nation-leading legislation. In June, the NYS Legislature passed the Birds and Bees Protection Act, and Governor Hochul signed the bill into law on December 22, 2023. The ban on neonic treated corn, soybean, and wheat seeds takes effect on January 1, 2029 and the ban on ornamental uses takes effect on July 1, 2027.

Background

What are Neonicotinoids?
Neonicotinoids (A.K.A. “neonics”) are pesticides that attack the nervous system of insects. These pesticides are typically added to seeds of plants, such as corn, wheat, and soybeans. These chemicals persist and spread as the plant grows, making the entire plant toxic to bees and other pollinators. Neonics are also used for cosmetic purposes, including lawn and ornamental uses. Despite the adverse impacts of neonics, they remain as the world’s most widely used insecticide.

Why Pollinators Matter
Pollinators, such as honeybees, beetles, butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds, are indispensable components of our food web. Globally, animal and insect pollinators contribute to up to 35% of all food production, with 87 of the leading 115 crops dependent on these key pollinators. In New York, pollinators provide an estimated $440 million in pollination services annually and are essential to key state crops like apples, blueberries, cherries, squash and tomatoes. Without honeybees and other pollinators, we will experience smaller harvests and higher food prices for staple crops.

Pollinators Under Threat
Unfortunately, our pollinators are under threat from harmful neonics. Neonics have made U.S. agriculture 48-times more harmful to insects since they were introduced. The coating on just one neonic-coated seed has enough neonic active ingredient to kill a songbird or a quarter million bees.

Since 2006, beekeepers have been reporting abandoned beehives that are full of honey. This phenomenon of bees disappearing, known as colony collapse disorder, is linked directly to neonic use. For years, New York beekeepers have been reporting massive die-offs, with losses of over 45%.

Pesticides and Drinking Water
Pesticide contamination of New York’s waters is widespread, threatening our health and environment. A U.S. Fish and Wildlife study from 2018 found neonics in New York streams “in excess of toxicity and regulatory thresholds.” In 2016, extensive testing of New York surface waters by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) found the neonic imidacloprid in nearly 40% of samples. That same year, USGS monitoring found imidacloprid to be one of the most frequently detected pesticides in the Long Island aquifer.

Thanks for taking action. Together we make a difference!

Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

Happy Holidays from CCE!

Looking back at a successful 2023—we couldn’t have done it without your support!

Happy holidays from everyone at CCE! 2023 has been another successful year as we fought to protect clean water, battle climate change, ban dangerous pesticides, and so much more. Here are some of our top accomplishments from the past year:

• Offshore wind becomes a reality in New York: After many years of persistent advocacy from CCE, the first offshore wind turbines at the South Fork Wind Farm have been constructed—bringing clean, renewable energy to Long Island.

• Funding the restoration of Long Island Sound and the Great Lakes: Despite threats of cuts from Congress, we were able to maintain funding for the Long Island Sound Restoration Act and Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.

• Got lead pipes? Now you’ll know: There is no safe level of lead in drinking water. A new NYS law creates an inventory of all the lead pipes across the state and gives residents the right to know if they are drinking water that may be contaminated with lead. 

• Fixing our sewage and drinking water infrastructure: We helped to secure $500 million in NYS to prevent sewage spills into waterways and to remove dangerous emerging contaminants from drinking water.

• New York becoming a national leader in giving the public the right-to-know about PFAS “forever chemicals” in drinking water: After years of advocacy, NYS will soon require the testing of 23 additional PFAS chemicals in drinking water, while requiring prompt public notification when it is discovered. Additionally, we are continuing to support proposed national standards to limit PFAS in drinking water to the maximum extent possible.

• Matching an all-time high for the NYS Environmental Protection Fund: Once again, we successfully advocated for a $400 million NYS EPF, which will help restore the Great Lakes and Long Island Sound, build community parks and save family farms across the state, advance environmental justice in disadvantaged communities, and so much more.

While we celebrate all the success we’ve achieved with your support, we recognize there is so much more work to do in the year ahead. We still await a decision from Governor Hochul on whether she will sign legislation to save bees by banning dangerous uses of toxic neonic pesticides. We need to move forward aggressively with more offshore wind to fight climate change. We also need to make corporations reduce their plastic packaging waste that is polluting our Great Lakes and Atlantic Ocean. We won’t be able to do this without your support, so please make an end of year donation today! Happy holidays and thank you for everything you do!

Happy Holidays,
All of us at CCE

LAST CHANCE TO SAVE THE BEES!

Time is Running Out for Governor Hochul to Ban Toxic Neonic Pesticides in New York!

In June, the NYS legislature passed the Birds and Bees Protection Act with overwhelming support. On Tuesday, the bill was finally delivered to Governor Hochul. This started a 10-day clock for her to either sign or veto this landmark legislation. This bill would protect our pollinators from the most dangerous and toxic pesticide since DDT, neonicotinoids (A.K.A. “neonics”). Neonics kill bees, pollute water, and harm our health! Even if you’ve taken action in the past, we once again need your help in calling on Governor Hochul to sign this monumental legislation. Time is running out and we need YOUR help today!

Email Governor Hochul TODAY and tell her to sign the Birds and Bees Protection Act!

The Birds and Bees Protection Act (S.1856A/A.7640) would ban neonic treated corn, soybean, and wheat seeds; as well as cosmetic uses of neonics on lawns, gardens, and ornamental plants. 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. Neonics are contaminating surface and ground water across the state, often found at high levels. This toxic pesticide is threatening drinking water quality and our health. 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.

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 neonicotinoids and other harmful pesticides. Neonicotinoids (A.K.A. “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 pesticide 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! Together we can make a difference.
All of Us at CCE

Why Wind Works

Join us on November 30th for a virtual lunch and learn forum on Why Wind Works for New York

There has been a lot going on with offshore wind over the past year and we understand it may be hard to keep current! If you want important news and facts, then please join us for the upcoming Lunch and Learn entitled Why Wind Works, hosted by Citizens Campaign for the Environment and New York League of Conservation Voters Education Fund.

Join us and a panel of experts to provide facts on why offshore wind works, why it is needed in our state, and what benefits it brings to several regions throughout New York. Learn more about the environmental impacts of offshore wind and the programs to protect marine life and our oceans as we move forward with this renewable energy infrastructure.

Our expert panel will include speakers from:

• U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)

• NY State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA)

• NY State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)

There will be an opportunity for Q & A with our expert panelists after the presentation.

Date: Thursday, November 30, 2023
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

This event is free and open to the public. Make sure you save the date and register today.

Thank you for joining us.

Sincerely,
All of us at CCE

IMPORTANT UPDATE: SUFFOLK COUNTY LEGISLATURE MAJORITY WILL NOT ALLOW CLEAN WATER REFERENDUM THIS YEAR

Tell the Suffolk County Legislature we deserve the right to vote for clean water!

The Suffolk County Legislature failed to pass legislation that would simply allow the public to vote on a clean water ballot referendum this November. After 10 years of crafting a bi-partisan clean water restoration plan, this is a tragic disappointment for our environment and public health!

Untreated sewage is polluting our drinking and coastal waters. Nitrogen pollution from sewage is responsible for massive fish kills, turtle die offs, toxic algae blooms, and beach closings across Suffolk County. The science is clear; the majority of the nitrogen pollution in our waterways comes from outdated sewage and septic systems. Upgrading our sewage and septic infrastructure is necessary to restore the health of our bays, harbors and drinking water!

This year, the New York State budget included language allowing Suffolk County to create a unified wastewater management district and to hold a ballot referendum which would allow residents to vote on clean water funding. We needed the Suffolk Legislature to vote yes to put this issue on the ballot so that Suffolk residents could decide this November if an increase of 1/8 of a penny in sales tax should be dedicated to protecting water resources.  Funding would be used only for expanding sewers and installing upgraded nitrogen-removing septic systems.

Despite a decade of work to get here and a large coalition of environmentalists, labor unions, chambers of commerce, civic organizations, and local businesses coming together in support, the Suffolk Majority voted no in July. The deadline to pass the legislation that would let us vote on clean water this year has passed.

Here is how Suffolk Legislators voted on whether they would allow a clean water ballot initiative in November:

1.  Al Krupski - Yes

2. Bridget Fleming - Yes

3. James Mazzarella - Absent

4. Nick Caracappa - No

6. Sarah Anker - Yes

7. Dominick Thorne - No

8. Anthony Piccirillo - No

9. Samuel Gonzalez - Yes

10. Trish Bergin - No

11. Steven Flotteron – No

12. Leslie Kennedy – No

13. Rob Trotta – No

14. Kevin McCaffrey – No

15. Jason Richberg – Yes

16. Manuel Esteban – No

17. Tom Donnelly – Yes

18. Stephanie Bontempi - No

The public was denied the right to vote on clean water this year. This was a huge disappointment, but we’re never done fighting for clean water. Let members of the Suffolk Legislature know that you demand the right to vote for clean water and urge him to move forward with a referendum as soon as possible.

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.  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 subwatersheds 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 Subwatersheds 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.  In order 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,
All of us at CCE

No Bees, No Pumpkins!

Celebrate National Pumpkin Day tomorrow by Urging Governor Hochul to Sign the Birds & Bees Protection Act!

On Thursday, October 26, celebrate National Pumpkin Day by joining in on the action to save the bees! Pumpkins rely on bees for pollination, without bees we wouldn’t have pumpkins. Unfortunately, bee populations have been declining at an alarming rate. This rise in bee deaths has largely been linked to the explosive increase and ubiquitous use of the systemic pesticide, neonicotinoids (“neonics”). To protect the bees, environment, and public health from this toxic pesticide, the NYS Legislature passed the Birds and Bees Protection Act, which bans certain uses of neonics that provide no benefit to users but pose the highest risk to bees. Now the bill is waiting to be signed by NYS Governor Kathy Hochul. Join us on National Pumpkin Day in calling on Governor Hochul to sign the Birds and Bees Protection Act! Check out our social media toolkit for ideas on how you can get involved!

Date: Thursday, October 26, 2023
Time: All Day
Location: All Social Media Platforms—X, Facebook, and Instagram, to name a few.

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 and ban ornamental and turf 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!

Thank you for taking action.

Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

What are the Problems with Artificial Turf? You have questions, we have answers!

Image by congerdesign from Pixabay

Join CCE and PEER on October 10th for a virtual lunch and learn presentation on the environmental and public health concerns associated with artificial turf fields

Throughout New York State, Connecticut, and the nation, natural grass playgrounds and athletic fields are being replaced with “artificial” or “synthetic” turf. The use of artificial turf raises significant environmental, health, and safety concerns that parents, schools, and policymakers must be made aware of. As schools continue to switch over to artificial turf, children who play on these surfaces are at increased risk of physical injury and exposure to toxic chemicals. 

On Tuesday, October 10, Citizens Campaign for the Environment and Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) are co-hosting a virtual educational presentation to discuss the significant problems with artificial turf.

Topics include:

• Adverse impacts to water quality, public health and safety, and our environment

• Microplastic pollution caused by artificial turf

• A closer look at how ubiquitous turf fields are on Long Island, and how that can impact local water quality

• What can we do to address the problem, including policy solutions 

Join us to hear from experts and have the opportunity to ask questions. This event is free and open to the public.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, October 10
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Where: Virtual presentation on Zoom. Register today!
Speakers:

• Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, CCE

• Liam de Haan, University of Barcelona

• Matt Simon, science writer at Wired magazine

• Kyla Bennett, PhD, JD, Director of Science Policy, PEER 

• Monica I. Mercola, Environmental Legal Fellow, PEER 

Thank you for joining us!

Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE

Support Offshore Wind for Long Island and New York State!

Join us for Public Hearings on Empire Wind 2 on October 11th

Let NY State know why you support transitioning from fossil fuels to offshore wind – your voice matters!

Empire Wind 2 will be located off the coast of Long Beach City and will generate 1,260 megawatts (MW) of electricity for Long Island, enough for 600,000+ homes. Energy will be delivered to the south shore via a cable connection to a substation in Island Park. 

This is one of five offshore wind projects selected by New York State that will bring us nearly halfway to NY’s mandate of 9,000 MW of offshore wind by 2035. It will also help us reach our critical renewable energy and greenhouse gas reduction targets in NY’s climate law, while bringing green jobs and community benefits to the region. 

As part of the approval process for these offshore wind farms, the NYS Public Service Commission (PSC) specifically looks at the impact of the cable connection both offshore in NY waters and onshore.  

On October 11th, the PSC will be holding public information sessions followed by public hearings on Empire Wind 2 and the cable connection. Long Island residents will have the opportunity to voice their support for offshore wind.

Long Beach, Island Park and all of Long Island’s south shore communities are on the front lines of climate change. We need to be leaders in the fight for renewable energy. Come show up, stand up, and speak up on the importance of fighting climate change and transitioning to renewable energy.

Date:
Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Times:
Information Forum 1:00pm; Public Statement Hearing 2:00pm
Information Forum 5:30pm; Public Statement Hearing 6:30pm

Where:
City of Long Beach, City Hall Community Chamber, 6th Floor, 1 West Chester St., Long Beach, NY

Thank you for joining us!

Sincerely, 
All of us at CCE

What are the Problems with Artificial Turf? You have questions, we have answers!

Image by congerdesign from Pixabay

Join CCE and PEER on October 10th for a virtual lunch and learn presentation on the environmental and public health concerns associated with artificial turf fields

Throughout New York State, Connecticut, and the nation, natural grass playgrounds and athletic fields are being replaced with “artificial” or “synthetic” turf. The use of artificial turf raises significant environmental, health, and safety concerns that parents, schools, and policymakers must be made aware of. As schools continue to switch over to artificial turf, children who play on these surfaces are at increased risk of physical injury and exposure to toxic chemicals.

On Tuesday, October 10, Citizens Campaign for the Environment and Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) are co-hosting a virtual educational presentation to discuss the significant problems with artificial turf. Topics include:

• Adverse impacts to water quality, public health and safety, and our environment

• Microplastic pollution caused by artificial turf

• A closer look at how ubiquitous turf fields are on Long Island, and how that can impact local water quality

• What can we do to address the problem, including policy solutions

Join us to hear from experts and have the opportunity to ask questions. This event is free and open to the public.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, October 10
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Where: Virtual presentation on Zoom. Register today!
Speakers:

• Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, CCE

• Matt Simon, science writer at Wired magazine

• Kyla Bennett, PhD, JD, Director of Science Policy, PEER

• Monica I. Mercola, Environmental Legal Fellow, PEER

Thank you for joining us!

Sincerely,
Your friends at CCE 

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