Nassau County Takes Action Against Climate Change

MINEOLA, NY—Nassau County leaders have announced plans to participate in the New York’s Climate Smart Communities Program and to adopt a series of Climate Smart goals.

By participating in the program, Nassau County officials say they will decrease energy usage, inventory greenhouse gas emissions to establish a baseline and reduction goals for County government operations, educe solid waste generation and more.

“It is our responsibility to protect our environment for generations to come and Nassau County stands ready to do our part. We are pledging to make significant strides towards fighting climate change by joining the Climate Smart Communities program. We are excited about the prospects of working together to create a more sustainable, cleaner New York,” Nassau County Executive Laura Curran said.

Curran made the announcement this week alongside New York State Senator Todd Kaminsky. According to the county executive, under the program, the county will also:

• Achieve/exceed LEED standards for new facility construction and incorporate energy efficient technology, where applicable and feasible
• Convert County fleet to low/no emission and fuel-efficient vehicles
• Shift to clean, renewable energy generation and procurement
• Protect open space, biodiversity and water quality throughout the county
• Enhance community resilience to impacts of climate change such as sea level rise and storm surge
• Support a green innovation economy
• Establish public awareness campaigns on County’s green initiatives to encourage residents to be more environmentally responsible.
• Engage in evolving climate action research and policy at the local and regional level, be willing to consider new ideas

“New York is leading the way on combating climate change and ensuring a green, sustainable future for generations to come,” Senator Todd Kaminsky, chair of the NYS Senate Environmental Conservation Committee. “I commend County Executive Laura Curran on her commitment to making Nassau a climate smart community and transitioning away from inefficient and cost-prohibitive energy sources.”

According to the county, it is already taking steps towards meeting new energy goals and switching to sustainable practices. This includes working to bring electric vehicle charging stations to county buildings and properties for public use.

“Climate change is the defining issue of our generation. On behalf of DEC, I applaud Nassau County for adopting the Climate Smart Communities pledge and joining the communities across New York State who are working to tackle this challenge in a collaborative and proactive way,” New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos said.

Members of the Climate Smart Communities program are a network of New York communities engaged in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving climate resilience. The program provides guidance to local governments on best practices for mitigating and adapting to climate change.

Video of the County Executive’s environmental PSA: