The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), along with community partners and stakeholders, will hold a public meeting on the results of DEC’s statewide Community Air Monitoring Initiative, released in August, including presenting the data and story maps and findings and providing an opportunity for participants to ask questions.
When: Tuesday, Oct. 15, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Buffalo Museum of Science, 1020 Humboldt Pkwy, Buffalo
Note: Registration is not required. Visit DEC’s Community Air Monitoring website for more information.
On Aug. 13, DEC released the results of the first phase of the State’s historic effort to monitor air quality in 10 disadvantaged communities using local data collected through mobile and stationary monitoring. Through the initiative, DEC collaborated with local residents and community stakeholders to collect data that will help develop strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other sources of air pollution in areas with high air pollution burdens.
The study is a critical part of the State’s ongoing implementation of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Announced by Governor Kathy Hochul in 2021, the statewide Community Air Monitoring Initiative is the largest air monitoring initiative ever undertaken in New York State.
The year-long study, supported with funding from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), provides a comprehensive picture of air quality in 10 disadvantaged communities disproportionately impacted by air pollution and home to approximately five million New Yorkers.
Additional meetings in the other communities that were part of the initiative have been announced or will be announced soon. Information about each meeting is available on DEC’s website.
Interpreter and translation services shall be made available to deaf persons and persons with limited English proficiency at no cost. Requests must be received 10 calendar days before the meeting, but DEC will make every effort to fulfill requests received closer to the meeting date. Requests can be directed to the NYSDEC Division of Communication, Education, and Engagement by mail (address: NYSDEC, 625 Broadway, Albany, New York 12233-4500), e-mail ([email protected]) or (518) 402-8028.
