Laying the groundwork for a strong,
21st century clean-energy economy

Scores of business and community leaders, elected officials, environmentalists and policy makers turned out Monday for the New York League of Conservation Voters' 2009 Capital District Eco-Breakfast at Albany's Fort Orange Club.

Jim Sevinsky, left, of GE Energy, accepts NYLCV's Environmental Champion Award from Ray Gillen.Three of the region's leaders received NYLCV's Environmental Champion Award: GE, New Scotland Council Member-Elect Daniel Mackay and Susan Savage, chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. Jim Sevinsky, Executive Counsel for Environmental Health and Safety at GE Energy, accepted the award on behalf of GE.

Chair Savage also made an important policy announcement at the event: the county government is partnering with Green Planet Products LLC to become the first municipality in New York State to begin testing 100 percent biodegradable motor oil made from excess fat. The county will the fuel (donated, at no cost to taxpayers) in fleet vehicles and compare its performance against traditional oil products.

Ray Gillen, Chair of the Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority and Commissioner of Economic Development and Planning for Schenectady County, was the Eco-Breakfast's special guest. Congressman Paul Tonko, a nationally respected authority on energy policy, gave the keynote address.

Thanks to all of our guests and honorees, and to NYLCV's Capital District Chapter -- led by Dr. Jim Melius -- which is setting the bar for environmental politics and policy making in the region.