New Yorkers Need Leadership from State Legislators to Increase Recycling, Reduce Landfilling, and fight Climate Change

National and State Not-for-Profit and Non-Governmental Organizations Join Together to Say Pass Extended Producer Responsibility Legislation in 2022 and Take the Burden off Taxpayers and Communities

ALBANY, NY (May 3, 2022) – The New York State legislature has less than a month left this session to remove the economic burden of hundreds of millions of dollars from taxpayers and municipalities by passing extended producer responsibility (EPR) legislation.  EPR is a strategy that mandates producers’ responsibility for their packaging by making them financially accountable for its end-of-life.  In addition to its economic benefits, EPR will also bring universal curbside recycling to all New Yorkers and make it as easy to recycle as throw something away, which positively impacts the climate, reduces waste destined for disposal, and cleans up our communities. State and national leaders from Citizens Campaign for the Environment, the New York League of Conservation Voters, the New York Product Stewardship Council, and The Recycling Partnership have joined together to bring to the forefront that there is no better time in New York’s history to make as big an impact on the state’s recycling system as there is now.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s recent report on the limited time the world has left to halt the most dire impacts of climate change has made it clear we are all in a now or never moment and under the state’s landmark climate law, the Climate Action Council has included packaging producer responsibility in its list of policy tools to address New York’s solid waste problems and reduce GHG emissions. Expanding convenient and simplified recycling opportunities for all New Yorkers will collectively contribute to a reduction in GHG emissions by reducing the use of virgin materials in new products, driving a circular economy by using post-consumer materials, and expanding access to recycling to all New Yorkers. Now is the time for New York’s legislative leaders to step up and make history by overhauling and improving the state’s recycling system.

The following statement can be attributed to the Citizens Campaign for the Environment, the New York League of Conservation Voters, the New York Product Stewardship Council, and The Recycling Partnership:

“On behalf of New York’s 20 million people, we strongly urge the New York Legislature to take advantage of the momentum that producer responsibility has in the state and across the country and pass it this year. Governor Hochul and the NYS Senate included EPR language in their respective budget proposals, although the policy was not included in the final budget agreement. Now, with Senator Kaminsky recently advancing EPR legislation (S.1185C) out of the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee, and Assemblyman Englebright expected to introduce new EPR legislation imminently, we are urging the legislature and Governor to get a strong, well-designed EPR bill passed and signed into law this year. We have discussed these concepts for years. The time is NOW to empower all New Yorkers with adequate access to recycling.”

“We are at a tipping point with the state’s solid waste crisis, and we can’t afford to wait another year to address it. We are counting on the Senate and Assembly to come together and pass a strong EPR bill this session,” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE). “The cost of waste disposal has skyrocketed and the amount of waste we generate continues to grow. Continuing with the status quo is no longer an option for local governments or our environment. Instead of putting the onus on taxpayers to foot the bill for corporations’ excessive and unrecyclable packaging, we need to hold those corporations responsible for reducing their packaging waste and making it easier to recycle.”

“The people of New York deserve the chance to live more sustainable lives, and a thoughtful, well-designed bill would deliver recycling to every New Yorker,” says Keefe Harrison, CEO of the national nonprofit The Recycling Partnership, which recently supported the significant expansion of Cohoes’ curbside recycling program. “This is about equity and a cleaner future for our children.”

Patrick McClellan, Director of Policy for the New York League of Conservation Voters, said, "We have a waste crisis in our state, and we need to take the burden off residents and local governments. Passing extended producer responsibility (EPR) legislation will support municipalities by holding producers accountable for their environmental impact, reducing waste, and ensuring every New Yorker is able to divert their recyclable waste from the landfill. The New York League of Conservation Voters urges the Assembly and Senate to pass strong EPR legislation before the end of session on June 2nd."

“Taxpayers and municipalities in New York are subsidizing an inefficient recycling infrastructure.  Engaging producers of packaging will provide a much needed ‘reboot’ of our existing system through expanded opportunities that provide greater access, financial support, and modernization to budge our stagnant recycling rates,” said Dawn Timm, Chair of the New York Product Stewardship Council.   “By shifting the financial burden to packaging producers, we eliminate the vulnerability local government programs are experiencing due to volatile recycling markets.  New York’s packaging proposal will divert millions of tons of valuable recyclables out of our landfills and incorporate into new packages, support thousands of jobs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and positively impact the climate.”

“Poll after poll shows that Americans want to recycle more. We encourage New Yorkers to reach out to their Assemblymembers and Senators now and tell them you want packaging EPR. You want recycling to be easy. You want to recycle more, pay less to do so, and protect the environment. We urge the New York Legislature to act this year and not waste this unique opportunity to make a difference in accordance with New York’s Climate Action Plan.”

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To Bee or Not To Bee? That is the Question.

New York Assembly Votes Yes and We Are One Step Closer to Banning Unnecessary Uses of Toxic Neonic Pesticides

Advocates Created a BUZZ in Albany and Neonics will feel the Sting

For immediate release: April 27, 2022

Albany, NY – This week, advocates from across the state came together in Albany to build support for the Birds and Bees Protection Act, which was just passed by the NYS Assembly. This law would ban the use of neonicotinoid (neonic) treated corn, soybean, and wheat seeds, as well as ornamental uses such as on lawns, gardens, and golf courses. A diverse coalition, made up of environmental organizations, health care professionals, and organic farmers worked for several years to advance the bill.

“The birds are chirping and the bees are buzzing with praise for our Assembly members taking action to address toxic neonic pesticides.” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment. “Neonics not only threaten our pollinators, but also contaminate our entire environment. From Long Island to the Great Lakes, neonics are contaminating our water resources and are often found at high levels. By eliminating the high-risk/low benefit uses of this pesticide, we can protect our pollinators, water quality, health, and environment. CCE applauds Assemblyman Steve Englebright for sponsoring and championing this bill and the NYS Assembly for passing the Birds and Bees Protection Act. We look forward to continuing our work with the Senate bill sponsor and champion, Senator Hoylman, in moving this bill through the Senate”.

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 also threaten New York’s water resources, food security, and public health.

The harmful overuse of neonics has devastated pollinator populations across the globe and in New York. These pollinator losses have been attributed to the sudden spike in use of neonics, mainly from treated seeds. Corn, soybean, and wheat treated seeds account for over 73% of all neonics used in New York and ornamental uses make up an additional 15%. According to a 2020 report by Cornell University, these uses provide no net income benefit to users yet pose some of the highest risks to pollinators.

The Birds and Bees Protection Act (S.699C/A.7429A) would ban these low benefit/high risk uses of neonics in NY. 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.

Biden Administration’s Greenlight of NY Bight Sale for Offshore Wind Power Celebrated by Labor, Environment, and Industry. Groups Applaud Gov Hochul

Contact:

Fred Zalcman, Director, New York Offshore Wind Alliance, 475- 204-4762 (Mobile)

Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment 631-384-1378

Mariah Dignan, Regional Director, Climate Jobs NY 646-708-5474

Julie Tighe, Executive Director, NYLCV  518-330-4812

Long Island - Climate Jobs NY, New York League of Conservation Voters, Long Island Association, Long Island Federation of Labor, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, the New York Offshore Wind Alliance, the Building and Construction Trades Council of Nassau and Suffolk Counties and Sierra Club applaud Governor Hochul and the Biden Administration’s prioritization of offshore wind development off New York’s shores. This Final Sale Notice brings us one significant step closer to transitioning away from fossil fuels, fighting climate change and creating tens of thousands of good union jobs. 

On December 16, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) completed its environmental review of the nearly 800,000-acre wind energy areas (WEAs) in the NY Bight and issued a finding of no significant impact. This is a key marker in creating a sustainable, thorough, and predictable permitting process to advance the offshore wind industry. Development in the areas included in this Final Sale Notice encompass six additional lease areas providing the potential to generate over 5.6-7 gigawatts of clean wind energy, enough to power over 4 million homes. Today’s announcement includes: 

• 6 new wind energy lease areas – the most new lease areas created by BOEM at one time.

• Stipulations concerning project labor agreements (PLAs) - leaseholder will be required to make every reasonable effort to enter into PLA covering construction scope

• New incentives for use of domestic supply chain – lessees given a credit off rental fee for domestic assembly or manufacturing of major project components which encourages locally sourced materials and jobs.

• Stipulations concerning enhanced/early engagement with interested and affected stakeholders

John R. Durso, President of the Long Island Federation of Labor said, “The Final Sale Notice for the New York Bight demonstrates that President Biden is determined to fight climate change while bringing a new industry to Long Island with jobs that provide good wages and benefits. Opening new lease areas for offshore wind development will create the opportunities for a new generation of workers to gain careers that will help our region build strong, resilient communities.”

“BOEM’s Final Sale Notice for the New York Bight is a major milestone in the development of a domestic U.S. offshore wind industry”, said Fred Zalcman, Director of the New York Offshore Wind Alliance. “The Biden Administration’s unwavering commitment to the development of this new, clean and abundant renewable resource will pay significant dividends by spurring new investments in area ports and harbors, manufacturing capacity, and the next generation of skilled workers.”

“With today's Final Sale Notice on these six new lease areas in the New York Bight, the Biden Administration signaled the historic opportunity we have to create thousands of good union jobs in offshore wind, with a Project Labor Agreement requirement for construction of new wind farms,” said Mariah Dignan, Regional Director for Climate Jobs NY. “This crucial stipulation will propel working families forward for generations to come while taking an important step forward for the offshore wind industry, which can be an anchor of our energy future here on Long Island and throughout New York.”

“Climate related disasters in 2021 cost us $145 billion dollars in recovery needs. Tornados, hurricanes, droughts, fires and heat waves are devasting to our economy and communities. We cannot afford to delay our nation’s battel against the climate crises. Fortunately, the answer is blowing in the wind. We are delighted that the Administration is prioritizing the development of offshore wind. Our future depends on it,” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment. 

“From the Build Back Better Act to advancing clean energy projects, President Biden's administration is clearly prioritizing climate action,” said Julie Tighe, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters. “Today’s announcement by BOEM of new lease areas for auction in the New York bight will accomplish critical goals in tandem: generate enough clean energy to power more than two million homes, cut our reliance of fossil fuels, and create good-paying union jobs. Offshore wind will continue to play a crucial role as we strive to fight climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and green our grid, and we thank BOEM Administrator Amanda Lefton for her leadership on offshore wind development."

“The production of offshore wind energy in the New York Bight will mean more than just clean power; it means hope and new opportunities.  The impact of BOEM’s actions coupled with developing the region’s Offshore Wind market will certainly change our environment and economy for the better. Reducing our dependency on fossil fuels is crucial and reaching that goal is a key element in ensuring the earth is on a path to heal itself for the next generation.

Apprenticeship Training Programs are ready to capitalize on these initiatives and provide new careers for a generation of workers who want and deserve to be part of the middle class,” said Matthew Aracich, President of Building and Construction Trades Council of Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

"The announcement of up to 7GW of new lease areas for new offshore wind development is a victory for New York families, workers, and the climate," said Allison Considine, Senior Campaign Representative for the Sierra Club. "This marks a major milestone in achieving New York’s goal of 9GW of offshore wind by 2035, and President Biden’s goal of 30GW by 2030. Today’s Final Sale Notice demonstrates that New York’s goal of achieving 100% fossil-fuel-free electricity is not only feasible, it is breaking ground on new opportunities that will revitalize our economy and create a national leadership hub for responsible offshore wind development."

Matt Cohen, President & CEO of the Long Island Association, said, “It is a key priority of the Long Island Association to make our region the offshore wind capital of the country, and with today’s announcement from the Biden Administration it is clear we will be a national leader in clean energy, with the support of Governor Hochul. The LIA will work to ensure that Long Island realizes the job creation and supply chain benefits of our clean energy economy.”

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Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE) Lauds Governor Hochul’s Historic State of the State Address

Proposals would bolster NY’s role as national leader on protecting our environment and fighting climate change

For immediate release: January 5, 2022

Contact: Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, 631-384-1378, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Brian Smith, Associate Executive Director, 716-472-4078, bsmith@citizenscampaign.org

Albany, NY—Today Governor Hochul issued her first State of the State address as Governor. In response, Citizens Campaign for the Environment issued the following statement:

Adrienne Esposito, CCE Executive Director, said “CCE applauds Governor Hochul for her ambitious and forward-thinking environmental agenda delivered today in the State of the State address. These critical environmental initiatives will not only protect our environment and public health, but will also fight climate change, boost our economy, and help make New York a leader on offshore wind.”

“The challenges of addressing clean water, clean air and sustainability are vast, but with a clear vision for New York we can achieve a safer, healthier tomorrow. The Governor hit all the right topics including clean water, clean air, fighting climate change, creating a green economy, and addressing our solid waste crisis.  These programs enjoy overwhelming public support and will continue to propel New York forward as a national leader on environmental protection,” continued Esposito.  

Brian Smith, CCE Associate Executive Director, said “New York’s growing solid waste crisis requires bold action, and this exactly what the Governor has proposed to do. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) would require manufacturers to take responsibility for their products throughout their entire product life cycle, by bearing the cost of recycling for packaging and paper. Not only does this provide much needed relief to taxpayers, but it also serves as an incentive for producers to minimize packaging materials, improve recyclability, and reduce the toxicity of their products.

Highlights from State of the State:

• $4 Billion Environmental Bond Act: The Clean Water, Clean Air, Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act includes funding for land preservation, fighting climate change, managing wastewater and filtering drinking water, electric buses and more.

• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for Paper and Packaging –An EPR program for packing and paper products will require producers — not taxpayers — cover the cost of recycling. With EPR, producers become financially responsible for their products through the entire product lifecycle, incentivizing them to reduce waste, invest in recycling infrastructure, make products that are easier to recycle.

• Expanded Wetlands Protection - Wetlands provide a natural buffer for flood protection and clean water, saving us from violent storms. Expanding New York’s wetlands program by improving mapping requirements and enhancing regulations around smaller wetlands will not only protect our environment but also protect New York communities.

• Reduce Toxic Packaging.  –Reducing toxic and environmentally persistent chemicals in packaging and paper products by expanding the Hazardous Packaging rules by restricting two long-lasting chemicals — per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and phthalates — in all packaging.

• Invest $500 Million in Critical Offshore Wind Infrastructure: Including ports, manufacturing, and supply chain infrastructure needed to advance our offshore wind industry, leveraging private capital to deliver more than $2 billion in economic activity while creating 2,000 good-paying green jobs.

• Transitioning to Renewables - Governor Hochul will direct NYSERDA, DPS, and DEC to develop a blueprint to guide the retirement and redevelopment of New York’s oldest and most-polluting fossil fuel facilities and their sites by 2030.

• Safe guarding Long Island’s Aquifer and Water Sources - The State University of New York (SUNY) will expand SUNY Stony Brook Center for Clean Water Technology research to include waste water treatment technology and create the Suffolk County Wastewater Management District.

• Combat Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) and Support Localities:  Grants for septic system replacements, since replacing inadequate septic systems can greatly reduce the amount of wastewater-related nutrients that end up in a stream or lake. Rather than just treating HABs once they have formed, these grants will enable a proactive approach to mitigating these environmental hazards before they start.

NEW YORK EXPANDS TESTING OF DRINKING WATER FOR TOXIC EMERGING CONTAMINANTS

CCE applauds Governor Hochul for signing legislation that will protect public health and drinking water quality for all water systems, regardless of size

For immediate release: December 23, 2021

For more information:

Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, 516-390-7150, or cell 631-384-1378 aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Brian Smith, Associate Executive Director, 716-831-3206, bsmith@citizenscampaign.org

Albany, NY— Today, Governor Hochul signed legislation (A.126A/ S.1759A) to expand testing of drinking water for new emerging contaminants. Emerging contaminants, which are linked with a broad range of adverse health impacts, have been detected in drinking water supplies across the state through limited testing and often at levels above federal health guidelines. This legislation establishes the state’s first list of emerging contaminants that every water system, regardless of size, must test for. The bill closes a federal loophole for smaller water systems by requiring systems serving less than 10,000 people to test for emerging contaminants, thus helping to protect the drinking water of an additional 2.5 million New Yorkers.

“Clean water is the gift that keeps on giving. New York has taken a crucial step forward and given residents confidence and clarity about what contaminants may be lurking in their drinking water,” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE). “Now, New Yorkers in communities of all sizes will no longer be left in the dark when it comes to dangerous contaminants in drinking water. CCE applauds Governor Hochul for signing legislation that builds on New York’s nation leading commitment to ensure public health and drinking water quality is safeguarded from toxic emerging contaminants.”

New York State passed the Emerging Contaminant Monitoring Act (ECMA) in 2017, which instructs the NYS Department of Health (DOH) to create and regularly update a list of emerging contaminants that every water utility, regardless of size, is required to test for and notify the public. The NYS Drinking Water Quality Council recently moved to add seven PFAS chemicals to the state’s list of emerging contaminants. This legislation goes further to protect public health and drinking water quality by adding 40 contaminants to the state’s list (includes the 7 proposed by the Council). The legislation also requires NYS Department of Health to update the emerging contaminants list at least every three years.

“Industries switching from one toxic chemical to another has resulted in a slew of new emerging contaminants polluting communities across New York,” said Esposito. “This bill will keep New York ahead of the curve and ensure all water systems test for the most up to date list of emerging contaminants, thus protecting public health and the environment.  This is a wonderful holiday gift for all New Yorkers!”

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New York State Bans Styrofoam!

CCE applauds Governor Cuomo and the NYS Legislature for eradicating environmentally harmful Styrofoam products in New York

For immediate release: April 2, 2020

For more information, contact: Adrienne Esposito, 631-384-1378 aesposito@citizenscampaign.org or Brian Smith, 716-472-4078, bsmith@citizenscampaign.org

Albany, NY—Today, the NYS Legislature passed a ban on Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Foam, commonly referred to as Styrofoam TM, in the 2020-21 SFY Budget. In response, Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE), said:

“This shows true leadership and foresight in protecting the environment amid a public health crisis. Environmentalists, municipalities, and New Yorkers have long awaited ending the scourge of Styrofoam across the State. CCE thanks Governor Cuomo and the NYS Legislature for taking action in protecting our environment from harmful and unnecessary Styrofoam containers and loose fill packaging. Styrofoam is one of the top ten contributors to environmental litter and has long-term negative impacts on our waterways and wildlife. Styrofoam doesn’t breakdown, it breaks apart into small pieces eventually becoming microplastic pollution in our waterways.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Toxicology Program listed styrene, a chemical in EPS foam, as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.” It is known to leach from food packaging containers into food or drinks, especially when exposed to heat. No longer will the public unknowingly ingest cancer-causing styrene when they get a cup of coffee or takeout from restaurants.

This ban builds on New York’s commitment to ensuring our environment and public health is safeguarded from disposable plastic pollution. Many New York counties have already banned Styrofoam food containers with widespread support from the public; we applaud the Governor and NYS Legislature for banning Styrofoam containers statewide and raising the bar by including loose fill packaging in the ban.”

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Connecticut Caves to Industry Pressure in Suspending Critical Plastic Bag Law

There is No Scientific Proof Reusable Bags Contribute to the Spread of COVID-19
Lawmakers are Being Mislead by the Plastic Bag Lobby

 For immediate release: 

Friday, March 27, 2020

For more information contact:

Louis Rosado Burch, Connecticut Program Director- 475.434.1606 (mobile), lburch@citizenscampaign.org

Hamden, CT- Governor Ned Lamont signed an executive order suspending Connecticut’s 10 cent fee on plastic bags yesterday, in response to the plastic industry promoting fears about the use of reusable bags.

Connecticut’s bag fee has successfully curbed plastic pollution and encouraged reusable bag use across the state, making Connecticut a national leader on protecting our water from plastic pollution. The announcement comes as the plastic industry presses states and the federal government to outlaw reusable bags as a way to prevent the spread of Coronavirus. The EO clarified that reusable bags would not be prohibited as part of this initiative.

Louis Rosado Burch, CT Program Director for Citizens Campaign for the Environment, issued the following statement:

“The decision to suspend the 10 cent fee on single-use plastic bags is based on political science, not public health science. Incentivizing a return to polluting, disposable plastic bags will do nothing to protect public health. This is a time to base policy decisions on good science, and not succumb to the plastic industry’s efforts to capitalize on this pandemic for their own benefit.

Research shows that viruses last longer on non-porous surfaces like plastic than they do on fabrics and paper. Single-use plastic bags are handled multiple times before they are used to pack groceries, and are in no way sterile or resistant to viruses and bacteria. In fact, the irony is that the plastic bag industry is condemning reusable bags made of plastic while praising their bags, also made of plastic.

The good news is that the EO does not prohibit the public from continuing to bring their own bags in Connecticut. In truth, there is no peer reviewed scientific evidence to support the claim that reusable bags contribute to the transmission of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.

This effort is more nefarious than it seems. Behind the scenes, plastics industry lobbyists in Connecticut and around the country are fighting hard to capitalize on this stressful crisis to undo the recent wave of plastic bag bans and fees that have swept the U.S. creating measurable changes in public behavior. Their actions are about profits, not health. If the industry cares about public health, they should not be promoting disposable plastic bags. In the end, this is little more than a shocking and heartless effort to capitalize on a pandemic to promote wasteful and environmentally harmful plastic bags.”

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A Call for Criminal Charges Against US Navy and Northrup Grumman

For immediate release:  Wednesday, February 19, 2020

For more information contact: Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Cell: 631-384-1378, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Newsday investigation demonstrates Navy & Grumman knowingly allowed the public to drink toxic water

Farmingdale, NY—Newsday released comprehensive coverage and previously undisclosed documents verifying the US Navy & Grumman knew toxic chemicals from their operations were contaminating groundwater and putting public health in jeopardy. Their response was to perpetrate a decades-long cover up. Despite their own consultants warning them of contamination of drinking water wells, they chose to ignore their obligations to protect the public and kept the contamination a secret. 

The Grumman/Navy Bethpage Plume is the largest on Long Island, 4.3 miles long, 2.1 miles wide, and as much as 900 feet deep.  The plume travels under parks, schools, homes, businesses, and is contaminating drinking water supply well for thousands of residents. Citizens Campaign for the Environment is calling on our state and federal leaders to take immediate action and bring forth criminal charges against the Navy and Northup Grumman.    

Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment released the following statement:

“If an individual poisoned their neighbor’s drinking water well or dumped toxic chemicals in a reservoir system, they should face criminal charges. The cover up and lies by the Navy and Grumman caused Bethpage residents to drink dangerous chemicals, thereby harming countless families and victimizing the Bethpage community. The only way to prevent this from happening again, is to hold polluters accountable for their actions, even when those polluters include the federal government. A fine or a slap on the wrist is not enough. Authentic safeguards are needed to stop the pollution of our drinking water. Like any other criminal who endangers the welfare of the public, polluters should go to jail for their crimes. The Bethpage/Grumman plume clean up is crucial to protect the community’s health in the long term however, criminal charges are necessary to give justice to all the families impacted by the Navy and Grumman cover up over the last 40+ years and to prevent this from happening again to other innocent communities.”

Governor Cuomo Proposes Ban on Styrofoam in 2020

For immediate release: December 17, 2019

For more information, contact:  Adrienne Esposito, 516-390-7150, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

CCE lauds proposal to rid New York of environmentally harmful product

Albany, NY—Today Governor Cuomo is proposing to ban StyrofoamTM, as part of his 2020 State of the State proposals.  In response to the announcement, Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE), said:

“We applaud Governor Cuomo for proposing to ban this antiquated and environmentally harmfully product in New York State.  Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) foam, commonly referred to as “Styrofoam™”, poses a significant risk to the health of our environment. Styrofoam packaging is only used for a short time, but can wreak havoc on our environment for generations—littering open spaces, polluting waterways, and harming wildlife. Styrofoam doesn’t biodegrade; instead it breaks into small pieces and eventually becomes microplastic pollution in our waterways.

Styrofoam also poses a threat to human health. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Toxicology Program listed styrene, a chemical in EPS foam, is listed as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.” It is known to leach from food packaging containers into food or drinks, especially when exposed to heat.  When grabbing a cup of coffee on the go, we expect it to contain milk and sugar but not a dose of cancer causing styrene.  Takeout food is meant to be convenient, not carcinogenic. 

There is absolutely no reason to continue using this harmful material when sustainable alternatives are readily available.  NYC, along with several New York Counties, have already taken action to ban Styrofoam. I live in a village that banned Styrofoam in 2018 and the transition to new materials was seamless and widely embraced by the public.  Now we need a statewide ban.  We urge the legislature to work with the Governor to adopt the strongest ban possible in the 2020-21 SFY budget. “ 

Lawmakers hear clashing views on offshore wind turbines in Lake Erie

Lawmakers hear clashing views on offshore wind turbines in Lake Erie

By Sandra Tan
Published September 19, 2019|Updated September 19, 2019

There is no formal proposal to install wind turbines in Lake Erie waters off Western New York. But nearly 100 people showed up at an Erie County Legislature meeting on Thursday anticipating or fearing that day is coming soon.

Clean energy advocates pressed legislators to be open-minded about wind energy use. Though there are currently no freshwater wind farms in the United States, a six-turbine project is expected to be installed eight miles off the Lake Erie shores of Cleveland.

What has been informally introduced by the California-based Diamond Generating Corp., a subsidiary of Mitsubishi, is much larger. It would involve the installation of 50 wind turbines off the shores of the Town of Evans. Residents and public officials there have mounted an energetic campaign against any wind farm proposal off the shore of the town's 12-mile waterfront.

Wind energy advocates showed up by the dozens Thursday to decry a resolution by legislators Lynne Dixon and John Mills that preemptively opposes the construction of a Lake Erie wind farm.

Will Kempton, a published wind farm expert and professor with the University of Delaware, said a 200-megawatt wind farm could save seven lives a year.

"People actually die, you know, if you don’t reduce the amount of dirty energy that is produced," said Kempton, who was asked by the wind energy industry to appear at Thursday's hearing.

Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello referred to the "devastating environmental impact" such a project would have on the lake, leading to that county's bipartisan opposition to such a project.

"These industrial wind turbines are nothing but an investment scam," he said, referring to state and federal money these industries would be in line to receive. "The only green involved here, folks, is money."

Opponents referred to the stirring up of toxins on the lake floor and the harm and displacement of fish due to the noise and vibration of the wind turbines' installation and operation. They recounted Lake Erie's polluted past as a "dead lake." Now that the lake is rebounding, they said, nothing should set back that progress.

Proponents said that due to the shale bottom of the lake, wind turbines would not be hammered into the lake floor. Instead, companies would need to use new, innovative methods that would rely on giant "gravity" foundations that would sit on the floor's surface. Kempton also said that fish actually cluster around turbine structures and are popular spots for fishing charters.

Clarke Gocker, director for policy and strategy at PUSH Buffalo, also referred to recent state climate law that requires the state to transition from fossil fuels by 2050 and to meet zero emission targets by 2040.

The wind industry is interested in offshore wind farming because wind picks up speed as it moves across the water, creating more potential energy. Because wind energy is considered pollution and emissions-free, Brian Smith, associate director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment, said local governments should not shut the door on green energy and green jobs due to "misinformation and fear."

"Give wind a chance," he said.

Dixon and Mills reasserted their opposition to the project, adding their voices to that of Rep. Chris Collins and State Sen. Chris Jacobs. But Energy and Environment Chairman Timothy Meyers said the Legislature has no reason to weigh in on the matter yet since no formal wind farm proposal has been brought forward by anyone.

State Leaders Strike Agreement on Historic Climate Bill

PRESS STATEMENT

For immediate release: June 18, 2019

For more information, contact: Adrienne Esposito, 516-390-7150, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

STATE LEADERS STRIKE AGREEMENT ON HISTORIC CLIMATE BILL

CCE commends the Governor and legislative leaders for bold legislation to make New York a national leader on climate; call for passage before the end of session

Albany, NY—Today the Governor and legislative leaders in the Assembly and Senate came to an agreement on climate legislation, known as the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (A.8429 – Englebright / S.6599 – Kaminsky). The legislation would require 70% of the state’s electricity to be generated by renewable sources by 2030, zero emissions from statewide electrical generation by 2040, an 85% reduction in GHG emissions by 2050, net zero emissions in all sectors of the economy, and funding for frontline communities disproportionately impacted by the climate crisis. In response to the agreement, Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director for Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE), said:

“Enactment of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act will make New York State a trailblazer in the fight against climate change.  This is exactly the type of leadership that this nation needs right now. From the devastation caused by Superstorm Sandy downstate, to the historic flooding occurring along Lake Ontario upstate, every corner of New York State is already feeling the impacts of climate change. 

This legislation will put New York on the forefront in the fight to solve the climate crisis. The bill sets aggressive and achievable goals for realizing the state’s vast renewable energy potential and reaching net zero carbon emissions economy-wide.  Furthermore, the bill rightly provides resources to traditionally underserved communities that face disproportionate adverse impacts from climate change.  These are the critical steps that we need to take to address the climate crisis.

We commend Governor Cuomo, Senator Kaminsky, and Assemblyman Englebright for leading the way on this bold initiative.  We now urge the full legislature to act and pass this critical legislation before the end of session.”

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Governor Announces Pro-Environmental Budget

PRESS STATEMENT

For immediate release:
Tuesday, January 15, 2019

For more information contact:
Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, 5163907150, 631-384-1378 (mobile), aesposito@citizenscampaign.orgBrian Smith, Associate Executive Director, 716-831-3206, bsmith@citizenscampaign.org

CCE commends Governor for environmental leadership

Albany, NY—Today Governor Cuomo gave his State of the State address and released his 2019-20 Executive Budget proposal, which included a number of important environmental initiatives. In response to the Governor’s proposals, Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director at Citizens Campaign for the Environment, said:

“This is what national environmental leadership looks like. From ending the scourge of the plastic bag, to expanding renewable energy and fighting climate change, to protecting clean water; the Governor’s budget is a huge win for our environment and public health. We look forward to now working with the Governor and the legislature to finalize the strongest environmental budget possible for New York State.

CCE has worked to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders—environmentalists, wastewater treatment operators, drinking water suppliers, environmental justice organizations, local agencies, contractors, and others—that have collectively been calling for an additional $2.5 billion in clean water infrastructure investments. We are thrilled that the Governor announced a new, five-year, $2.5 billion clean water investment to compliment his initial $2.5 investment that began in 2017. New York has significant needs when it comes to protecting our water, and the Governor has responded with a very significant investment to address those clean water needs. We look forward to learning more about the details of these proposed investments.”

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Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE) empowers communities and advocates solutions for our shared environment and public health and is supported by over 80,000 members throughout New York State and Connecticut. www.citizenscampaign.org

updated by jchristensen  1/15/19

Landmark DEC Report Calls for Pharmaceutical Industry to Fund Safe Drug Disposal New York State

Groups applaud critical DEC report--call for legislature to pass Drug Take Back Act before end of session; Safe drug disposal of unused and expired prescription drugs critical to address opioid crisis and protect waters from contamination

Albany, NY—A coalition of environmental, public health, and product stewardship organizations are praising the Governor and DEC for their recently released report (available at dontflushyourdrugs.net), which calls for a robust, statewide safe pharmaceutical disposal program that is funded by the pharmaceutical industry. Governor Cuomo called for the report when he vetoed a poorly crafted pharmaceutical disposal bill that passed the legislature last year. Bipartisan state legislation, known as the Drug Take Back Act (S.7354 –Hannon / A.9576a – Gunther), which would establish a statewide safe drug disposal program funded by the pharmaceutical industry, is pending* in the Senate and Assembly. The groups are calling on the legislature to pass agreed upon legislation before the end of session.

Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director for Citizens Campaign for the Environment said, “The Governor got it right—the pharmaceutical industry must take responsibility for its waste, not the taxpayers. It seems that wherever researchers look for drugs in our waters, they are now finding it. We expect the shellfish and finfish we eat to be a source of nutrition, not opioids. There is a grave urgency to provide all New Yorkers with safe and convenient options for drug disposal, which the Drug Take Back Act will provide. We are counting on the Senate and Assembly to work together and get the bill passed this session.”

Emerging science is demonstrating that pharmaceutical drugs that are flushed are polluting our waters and adversely impacting aquatic life. A 2017 study of the Niagara River found high levels of antidepressants in brains of numerous fish. A 2016 study by Riverkeeper found 16 different pharmaceutical compounds, including those to treat blood pressure, cholesterol, and epilepsy, in the Hudson River. Most recently a study conducted by the Puget Sound Institute discovered trace amounts of oxycodone in bay mussels—the first time that opioids have been found in shellfish.

Dan Shapley, Water Quality Program Director for Riverkeeper said, “Riverkeeper thanks the Governor and the DEC for joining advocates in calling for a safe and convenient drug take back program funded by the pharmaceutical industry. With our partners at Cornell University and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, we have conducted first-of-their-kind surveys of pharmaceuticals in the Hudson River Estuary. We have detected 50 different pharmaceutical compounds, with greater numbers found in samples at or near municipal wastewater treatment plant outfalls. Unfortunately, Wastewater treatment plants are not designed to remove pharmaceuticals from the water before discharge. We strongly encourage the Assembly and Senate to pass the bipartisan Drug Take Back Act before the end of session.”

Marcia Bystryn, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters, said, "We are facing an environmental and health crisis due to the improper disposal of pharmaceutical drugs. Flushing and throwing away unused drugs can cause water contamination and negatively impacts public health. A safe pharmaceutical disposal program would improve our water quality and we urge our state legislators in Albany to implement such a program before this session ends." 
A lack of options to safely dispose of unused drugs is contributing to the national drug abuse epidemic that is now the leading cause of injury death in the U.S., ahead of car accidents. Deaths from drug overdoses and chronic drug abuse in New York State have increased 71 percent between 2010 and 2015.

Andrew Radin, Chair of the New York Product Stewardship Council and Recycling Director for Onondaga County Resource Recovery Agency said, "Over 2,000 people in New York die annually from opioid overdose, most commonly from prescription pain relievers. Because 70 percent of people who start misusing drugs get them from the homes of family and friends, the Drug Take-Back Act will save lives by stopping prescription drug abuse at its source."

“The DEC report is an important step for New York that fully aligns with an increasing number of governments across the U.S. that require pharmaceutical companies to fund and manage safe drug take-back programs,” said Scott Cassel, Chief Executive Officer of the Product Stewardship Institute. “Passing a bill will establish New York as a national leader in protecting water quality from improperly disposed medications and addressing the opioid addiction issue head on.”

The report is available at www.dontflushyourdrugs.net

*Senate passed the Drug Take Back Act in April, although the bill was recalled to the Senate, as the Senate and Assembly bills are not same as. The Assembly bill currently sits in the Codes committee.

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Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE) empowers communities and advocates solutions for our shared environment and public health and is supported by over 80,000 members throughout New York State and Connecticut. www.citizenscampaign.org

Groups Provide Vision for Water Protection in NYS

During Earth Week, a broad, diverse group of experts announce unprecedented collaborative effort to protect NY waters; New report released: “Protecting Our Water from Source to Tap: A Vision for Water Protection in New York State”

Albany, NY—A network of environmental groups, environmental justice organizations, academia, wastewater treatment operators, drinking water suppliers, and government entities from across New York State released a report today entitled “Protecting Our Water from Source to Tap: A Vision for Water Protection in New York State.” The groups worked in an unprecedented collaboration to develop a menu of options for policies, funding, programs, and actions at the federal, state, and local level that would address New York’s critical clean water needs now and in the years ahead. The groups are sharing the report with policymakers and other key water stakeholders across the state.
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“New York State is making great progress with recent historic investments in water protection, however, we have a long way to go to ensure clean, safe water for all New Yorkers from its source all the way to the tap,” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director for Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE). “We brought together a diverse group of water experts to discuss emerging threats to our water resources and explore options to protect clean water from the Great Lakes to Long Island’s sole source aquifer, now and in the years ahead. We now look forward to discussions with policymakers across the state that this report will facilitate.” 

Solutions are primarily focused on issues related to wastewater infrastructure, drinking water infrastructure, and source water protection. The report examines new innovative ideas, as well as ways to bolster existing programs that address policy and funding gaps in water protection. While the report recognizes that protecting New York’s water will require significant funding—New York’s wastewater and drinking needs are estimated at over $80 billion over the next 20 years—it also recognizes the need to ensure that when investments are made, clean water is kept affordable for all New Yorkers.

The report was led by Citizens Campaign for the Environment, with financial support from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation and Park Foundation. Participating groups include Stony Brook University, New York Water Environment Association, Onondaga County Department of Water Environment Protection, Orange County Water Authority, Riverkeeper, New York Rural Water Association, New York Section of the American Water Works Association, Wayne County Water and Sewer Authority, City of Newburgh, Natural Resources Defense Council, The Nature Conservancy, Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter, Port Washington Water District, People United for Sustainable House (PUSH) Buffalo, Partnership for the Public Good, City of Albany POTW, Environmental Advocates of New York, Adirondack Council, New York League of Conservation Voters, and Hudson River Watershed Alliance.

Geoffrey Baldwin, NYWEA President said, “The NY Water Environment Association is honored to collaborate with other environmental advocacy organizations on important water quality issues that affect public health and the environment. Complicated water issues need to be understood by elected officials and the general public, this report helps to communicate well our environmental challenges.” 

Judith Hansen, Chair of NYSAWWA said, “The New York Section of the American Water Works Association (NYSAWWA) was pleased to work with other stakeholders to offer ideas and solutions to the challenges facing New York’s waters. While the NYSAWWA and its members are dedicated to the stewardship of our drinking water resources, we recognize that resolving such problems as harmful algal blooms, emerging contaminants and aging infrastructure requires a true community response with participation from all sectors. The preservation of our quality of life and the protection of the public health depends on our continued collaboration.” 

Jessica Ottney Mahar, policy director for The Nature Conservancy in New York said, “The Nature Conservancy applauds Citizens Campaign for the Environment for convening organizations and experts to discuss threats to New York’s water resources, and for creating this important report capturing many policy opportunities we can work together to advance, building upon the progress already made with state funding and focus on this critical issue.”

Dan Shapley Water Quality Program Director for Riverkeeper said, “New York has taken historic strides to address some of the most important water issues of our day, including the need to upgrade of aging water infrastructure and to protect high quality drinking water at its source. We still have a long way to go to effectively manage watersheds, conserve water and ensure that the cost of needed investments are shared equitably. This document, and the group Citizens Campaign for the Environment convened to produce it, represent another step forward.”

Marcia Bystryn, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters, said, "Citizens Campaign for the Environment has crafted a roadmap for protecting New York's water resources that we are proud to support. Clean water is one of the defining environmental issues of our time and we look forward to working with advocates, elected officials, and other stakeholders to advance this vision." 

“Clean and abundant supplies of water are the life blood of New York’s prosperity. But if we do not respect and protect this essential resource, the repercussions will be irreversible and potentially catastrophic to our economy and quality of life,” said Roger Downs, Conservation Director for the Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter. “We call upon the Legislature and policy makers to use this report as framework for action to sustain New York’s clean water legacy.”

Senate Budget Calls on Pharmaceutical Industry to Fund Safe Drug Disposal in NY

Diverse coalition calls on Assembly and Governor to follow suit in final budget; Safe drug disposal of unused and expired drugs critical to address opioid crisis and protect waters from contamination

Albany, NY—A broad group of public health, sportsmen, product stewardship, and environmental organizations are calling on the Governor and Assembly to support the Drug Take Back Act in the final state budget. The Act was included in the New York State Senate’s budget proposal. The legislation would establish a robust, statewide program to provide safe pharmaceutical disposal for all New Yorkers. Pharmaceutical manufacturers, rather than the taxpayers, would foot the entire bill for implementing the program. Chain pharmacies would be required to provide take-back, while other authorized collectors (e.g. independent pharmacies, local law enforcement) would have the option of participating.

Unused drugs stockpiled in household medicine cabinets or disposed in the trash often end up in the hands of children, teenagers, and abusers, which contributes to accidental poisonings and the opioid crisis. The lack of disposal options is also perpetuating the antiquated practice of flushing unused or expired drugs, which is polluting our treasured waters across the state with trace amounts of pharmaceutical drugs. The DEA, EPA, and numerous other agencies agree that the safest method of pharmaceutical disposal is through take-back programs (i.e., drug collection drop-boxes hosted by law enforcement and retail pharmacies, mail-back programs, or municipal take-back events).

“New York State and local governments are already spending millions of dollars annually on safe disposal programs, yet far too many New Yorkers still do not have convenient access to safe disposal options,” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director for Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE). “In a year where the state faces a shortfall of over $4 billion, it is unfathomable that the multibillion-dollar pharmaceutical industry pays nothing to deal with its own waste and taxpayers continue to foot the bill. We are counting on the Governor and Assembly to join the Senate in including this critical legislation in the final budget.”

Wastewater treatment systems and septic systems are not designed to remove these contaminants, resulting in pharmaceutical pollution in waters across the state. Recent studies have shown high levels of antidepressants in fish in the Niagara River and the feminization of male fish (produced eggs) in Jamaica Bay that were exposed to hormones (birth control). Most recently, the Hudson Riverkeeper conducted studies on pharmaceutical pollution in the Hudson River.

Paul Gallay, President and Hudson Riverkeeper, said: “When Riverkeeper has partnered with scientists to look for pharmaceuticals in the Hudson River, we've found dozens - including some at concentrations that could affect aquatic life. The Drug Take-Back Act would help remove one important source of water contamination, by establishing a program funded by pharmaceutical manufacturers, not consumers or taxpayers. We are calling on the Governor and the New York State Legislature to pass the Drug Take-Back Act and ensure that pharmacies provide drop boxes to make it easy and convenient for people to properly dispose of unused medications.”

“Pharmaceutical companies are best positioned to minimize the adverse impacts of their products,” said Scott Cassel, CEO and Founder of the Product Stewardship Institute. “Through the Drug Take-Back Act, drug companies will fund the safe drug disposal for all New York residents, giving them incentive to reduce the amount of leftover medication.”

"Pharmaceuticals are among many emerging contaminants being found in the Great Lakes and local waterways, posing new and unknown risks to wildlife, ecosystems, and our drinking water. As part of our action agenda for our shared waters, Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper will work to minimize the impacts of emerging contaminants and is committed to partnering with government and academic institutions on pharmaceutical take-back programs to keep these contaminants out of our water," said Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper Executive Director Jill Jedlicka.

In the U.S., eighteen counties and two states (Massachusetts and Vermont) have passed similar manufacturer-funded pharmaceutical disposal laws. This includes Rockland County, which recently became the first local government in New York State to pass this type of law (similar laws have been introduced in Erie and Westchester Counties). Experience has demonstrated that cost to manufacturers is negligible—it is estimated to cost approximately one cent per $10 of medications sold.

A lack of options to safely dispose of unused drugs is contributing to the national drug abuse epidemic that is now the leading cause of injury death in the U.S., ahead of car accidents. Deaths from drug overdoses and chronic drug abuse in New York State have increased 71 percent between 2010 and 2015.

"Over 2,000 people in New York die annually from opioid overdose, most commonly from prescription pain relievers. Because 70 percent of people who start misusing drugs get them from the homes of family and friends, the Drug Take-Back Act will save lives by stopping prescription drug abuse at its source," said Andrew Radin, Chair of the New York Product Stewardship Council and Recycling Director for Onondaga County Resource Recovery Agency.

While the groups strongly support the Drug Take Back Act, they are also advocating that legislators make important improvements to the proposal before it is finalized in the budget. The groups are calling for the program to require the use of drop-boxes, which have been shown to be the most effective method of collection. The groups are also advocating that a convenience standard is established to ensure equal access for all New Yorkers, and that improvements are made to program reporting and education and outreach.
 

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