Environment DEC
From the August 2009 issue
DEC Finalizes New Greenhouse Gas Review Policy
Greenhouse gas emissions will be included in New York's environmental review of large-scale projects under a new policy that becomes effective August 15, DEC Commissioner Pete Grannis announced recently.
Policy Provides Guidance
The policy provides guidance to help DEC staff consider greenhouse gas emissions and energy efficiency when conducting environmental reviews of new projects. Environmental reviews are conducted under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), which requires that a "lead agency" identify and assess actions for their potential adverse environmental impacts, and in certain cases, develop an environmental impact statement and propose mitigation strategies. Although the policy expressly applies where DEC is the lead agency, it will be helpful to any project proponent or other lead agency considering greenhouse gas impacts.
Measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissons, such as use of renewable energy technology like the roof-top solar panels shown in this aerial view, are promoted by the new policy.
"This initiative builds on Governor Paterson's commitment to continuing New York's fight against climate change," Commissioner Grannis said. "DEC anticipates that, more and more, the public will raise the issue of climate change in the SEQRA process, and this policy will ensure that climate change impacts are considered in a consistent and fair manner. It includes a menu of design measures that can mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, such as energy-efficient construction, use of renewable energy technology and waste reduction. In addition to providing guidance to DEC staff, the policy will also help raise awareness of the actions that can be taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions."
Read the Final Version
Proposed in March, the policy has now been finalized and takes effect on August 15. To read the final version, go to Climate Change Guidance Documents on DEC's website.
In a separate but related effort, DEC has started the process of redesigning the environmental assessment form, a tool used in SEQRA reviews. The update of this form will include the addition of questions related to energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, among other issues.
