Climate change is a reality, and not to address it is gross negligence by government and irresponsible as citizens.
Environmental Leadership
New Yorkers know firsthand the devastating effects of climate change. Over the past ten years, New York State has experienced more extreme weather events than any other time in recent history. Governor Cuomo has taken decisive action to lead the fight against climate change and protect our environment for generations to come.
New York State has banned fracking and is committed to phasing out antiquated, polluting coal plants. The Governor's Clean Energy Standard, the first-ever state clean energy mandate, requires 70% of electricity consumed will come from renewable energy by 2030.
The Governor also banned single-use plastic bags and styrofoam, and is completing the largest artificial reef expansion in State history.
As the United States now faces an unprecedented reversal of federal climate and energy policy, New York stands ready to work with other regions and states to ensure vital progress on the climate is continued.
Taking Action Amid Washington's Fossil Fuel Assault
Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act
In 2019, Governor Cuomo passed the nation-leading Climate Act to empower every New Yorker to fight climate change at home, at work, and in their communities.
Banning Offshore Drilling in New York
In direct response to the Trump administration proposal to open U.S. coastal areas to drilling, Governor Cuomo signs legislation to ban offshore drilling in New York State waters.
Upholding the Paris Agreement
In response to the White House decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement, Governors Cuomo, Brown, and Inslee formed a coalition committed to taking action on climate change.
Advancing Clean Energy
New York State's 2030 energy goals include a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and 50% consumed electricity to come from renewable resources.
Under the NY-Sun initiative, the goal is to add 6,000 megawatts of distributed solar in New York State by 2025.
In 2019, there will be 35,000+ electric vehicles and more than 2,900 ev charging stations in New York State.
New York State has an offshore wind goal to have 9,000 megawatts of offshore wind energy by 2035.
Fueling a Clean Energy Economy
Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative
New York State commits, and Governor Cuomo calls on other RGGI states, to lower the RGGI emissions cap by at least an additional 30 percent below 2020 levels by 2030.
Charge NY
Under Charge NY, New York State is making significant investments to improve the development and use of electric vehicles and the necessary technology and infrastructure.
NY Green Bank
The largest green bank in the U.S. works with partners in the finance community to invest $1 billion in clean energy technologies and projects.
NY-Sun
Making Solar Affordable for All New Yorkers
Conservation and Stewardship
Environmental Protection Fund
The FY 2022 Enacted Budget continues EPF funding at $300 million, the highest level of funding in the program's history.
Excelsior Conservation Corps
A 10-month residential AmeriCorps program based at Morrisville State College that promotes young adult conservation and environmental education programs.
The Open Space Conservation Plan
From the Adirondacks to the Catskills to Long Island, New York has an abundance of natural resources and exquisite open spaces that we must protect for future generations to enjoy.