Environment
NYPIRG is a leading force in protecting human health from exposure to hazardous chemicals, increasing citizen involvement in environmental decision-making, and expanding the public's right-to-know. We advocate for safe drinking water, clean air, and eliminating toxics in our environment through pollution prevention and toxic waste cleanups.
NYPIRG works at the local, state, and national level to achieve our goal of a cleaner and healthier environment for all New Yorkers. Below are some of our major environmental program areas:
Air Pollution: NYPIRG's Clean Air and Energy Project works for comprehensive, modern emissions standards on all power plants to address unhealthy air, mercury contamination and global warming.
Energy Sustainability: NYPIRG's Clean Air and Energy Project also encourages expanding energy efficiency, conservation and renewable power programs to create a more sustainable future.
Green Electricity: NYPIRG's Fuel Buyers Group makes it cheaper and easier for New Yorkers to purchase clean, renewable wind power generated in New York State.
Mass Transit: NYPIRG's Straphangers Campaign works to improve public transportation in New York City and keep it affordable.
Mercury Reduction: NYPIRG is working to reduce the amount of mercury in power plant emissions and in consumer products. NYPIRG is also working to raise public awareness of mercury contamination in fish.
Nuclear Energy: NYPIRG is part of an alliance to shut down the Indian Point nuclear reactors north of New York City.
Pesticides: NYPIRG's Pesticide Project promotes policies to reduce pesticide use, encourage safer alternatives, and expand the public's right-to-know.
Solid Waste: NYPIRG advocates for waste prevention and recycling and opposes garbage incineration. NYPIRG currently spearheads a campaign to update the state's Bottle Bill, New York's most successful recycling and litter control program.
Watershed Protection Project: NYPIRG works to protect New York City's watershed areas to safeguard the drinking water of millions of New Yorkers.
