New York Governor Sets State Greenhouse Gas Emission Goals

On August 6, 2009, New York Governor David Paterson issued Executive Order No. 24 (2009), setting a goal of reducing the state’s greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent from 1990 levels by 2050.

Governor Paterson also created a Climate Action Council, which will include the commissioners of major state agencies and other entities such as the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority and Long Island Power Authority. The Council is directed to prepare a draft Climate Action Plan before September 30, 2010 and will hold public hearings on the draft climate plan and prepare a final Climate Action Plan based on public comments. The final Plan will be reviewed and, if needed, adjusted annually by the Council.

This Executive Order builds on previous New York State actions to address climate change. These actions include participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) and the “45 by 15” program for expanding efficiency measures and renewable energy.

Executive Order No. 24 (2009) [1]
Press Release [2]
Map of States with Greenhouse Gas Emissions Targets [3]