New York state has reached a critical milestone in its effort and planning to become carbon neutral by 2050. After three years of review, hearings and debate, the state has released its climate action Scoping Plan, a blueprint for eliminating fossil fuel reliance in the state. 

As New York State and New York City continue to be national examples for environmental legislation designed to reduce carbon pollution, the New York League of Conservation Voters is advocating strongly for implementation of four waste reduction measures at various stages. The League is urging Gov. Kathy Hochul to sign two bills already passed by the state legislature: the Digital Fair Repair Act and a bill that would require carpet producers to establish a recycling program.

The long-delayed project to build a new tunnel under the Hudson River for train travel between New York and New Jersey is moving forward, with billions in funding recently announced from the federal government. A well-functioning railroad for New York City commuters and the greater Northeast Corridor is critical to getting fossil-fuel-burning automobiles off the road, which translates into cleaner air and improved public health.