New York has many laws that contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but no statewide comprehensive strategy with a specific, measurable and binding reduction target. So says the New York State Bar Association in a 56-page task force report on climate change.
Issuing 22 proposals in four overall categories, the report focuses on buildings and energy, land use, vehicles and transportation, and other initiatives. It calls on Governor Paterson to implement measures that will reduce GHG emissions to 80% below 1990 levels by 2050.
In the land use area, the report recommends that State Environmental Quality Review Act regulations be amended so that greenhouse gas emissions are considered for all projects covered by the law. It's also recommended that local comprehensive land use plans be required to factor in the effects of GHG emissions.
The full report is available at:
http://www.nysba.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home&template=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=26190
