For Release: Thursday, July 16, 2009
DEC Finalizes Greenhouse Gas Review Policy
Project Reviews to Cover Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Greenhouse gas emissions will be included in New York's environmental review of large-scale projects under a new policy that becomes effective in 30 days, State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Pete Grannis announced today.
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.
"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. While helping guide DEC staff, the policy also will help raise awareness of all the actions that can be taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions."
The policy was proposed in March; it now has been finalized and takes effect in 30 days. The policy is available at www.dec.ny.gov/regulations/56552.html.
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.
