New York Shows Congress "The Way" on Greenhouse Gas Reduction
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August 7, 2009
Albany, NY - Environmentalists are calling an executive order signed Thursday by Gov. David Paterson 'historic.'
Executive Order No. 24 sets a goal for reducing greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050, resulting in an expected emissions decrease of 55 million tons.
Rob Moore, executive director of Environmental Advocates of New York, says the governor's action should provide business with a strong push to invest in renewable energy. It delivers a potent political message as well, he says.
"Congress has been debating climate legislation and the Senate will be taking up this debate very soon. For Governor Paterson to step forward and say, 'New York is on board, and Congress here is where we think you need to be going,' I think is very important."
New York is already seeing significant investment in clean energy technology, including wind power upstate, according to Curtis Fisher, regional executive director of the National Wildlife Foundation. Fisher says the governor's executive order should provide incentive for renewable energy companies to relocate here.
"The wind industry has become larger in terms of employment than the coal industry. Transformations are occurring and New York needs to be ahead of the curve to attract business and get those investments, so we create jobs and reduce pollution."
The order mandates greater reductions in global warming emissions than are contained in the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 before Congress (HR 2454). It is similar to a measure approved in the New York Assembly but left in limbo due to the leadership coup in the State Senate. Some believe it could be revived there in the fall. Opponents of climate legislation argue the result will be greater energy costs for all.