New York State faces a $15 billion budget deficit, the potential loss of 225,000 jobs in the next two years and difficult struggles by local and county governments to meet their obligations and payroll. As big as these challenges are, the economic downturn creates an equally compelling opportunity for the state government to chart a course for a more stable economic future that advances environmentally sustainable practices. The New York League of Conservation Voters Education Fund (NYLCVEF) has mapped a plan to achieve a greener economy, which we will be advocating during the new legislative session, which began Jan. 7.

Clean Energy
Our 2009 New York State Policy Agenda calls for maintaining funding for vital environmental programs and adopting legislation that will lay the groundwork for the sort of investment in renewable energy, mass transit and sustainable solid waste policies that are essential to creating a sustainable and vibrant economy. A major component of our plan is clean energy and reducing energy use. A package of energy-efficiency measures and investments in renewable energy technologies will help combat climate change and foster energy independence that will protect the state's economy from the price fluctuations of fossil fuels.

Transit Infrastructure
Mass transit enhancements will also be vital to sustainability - and not just in the New York City region. Our plan calls for fully funding the Metropolitan Transportation Authority along the lines of the Ravitch Commission plan. In addition, the state must invest in transit infrastructure in urban areas throughout the state. These initiatives would benefit greatly from state and federal stimulus plans that focus on green infrastructure.

Smart-Growth Development
NYLCVEF's plan also supports smart-growth initiatives that encourage the development of transit-centered communities to reduce sprawl. Central to our smart-growth strategy is investment in brownfield cleanups. By broadening its tax credit program and allowing New York City to administer a local brownfield cleanup program, the state could spur the revitalization of thousands of contaminated properties. Coupled with action on the federal level, our 2009 State Policy Agenda will create jobs and keep New York headed toward a greener, cleaner future.

- Dan Hendrick

Newsletter Issue

• Ecopolitics Monthly --- April 2007