(Newburgh, NY) In a key win for New York residents and for climate advocates, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) yesterday denied a permit to the Danskammer Energy plant in Newburgh, NY. The proposed fracked-gas plant would have resulted in the release of toxic gases, like benzene, into the adjacent communities air and water as well as contributed to climate change-inducing greenhouse gas emissions. Fracking has been linked to severe adverse health effects including respiratory distress and premature birth.
Mothers Out Front Dutchess shares this victory with Food and Water Action, Scenic Hudson, NYPIRG and other grassroots and environmental organizations with whom the organization worked in solidarity with to prevent the expansion of fracked-gas combustion.
For the last two years, MOF Dutchess attended rallies, spoke at town board meetings, commented at Public Hearings sponsored by the DEC and the Public Service Commission, and wrote published opinion letters. Solidarity led to success. By doing so, Members lived up to the Mothers Out Front mission to help preserve a livable climate for our kids, our people and our planet.
As a result, Danskammer will not be permitted to exacerbate the Climate Emergency by emitting greenhouse gases into the air, nor will it be allowed to expose residents to particulate matter and the effect of chemical emissions that aggravate asthma and the health of children whose lungs are still forming. The DEC’s decision removes the fear that a leak of fuel into the Hudson River would poison the drinking water of thousands of citizens and kill its marine life. Danskammer will not be allowed to undermine the CLCPA’s mandate to reduce carbon emissions by taking us in the wrong direction.
“As mothers and others who care about the environment in Dutchess County, we are very happy with the DEC’s decision. Our children deserve clean air and water. Now, we can put our time and energy towards expanding energy- efficient and renewable energy options for New York state,” said LIn Yutang, Member of Mothers Out Front.
“Hope is like a road in the country; there was never a road, but when many people walk on it, the road comes into existence,” Yutang concluded.
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October 28th, 2021
Camila Gallardo
(305)215-4259
Camila.Gallardo@mothersoutfront.org
Mothers Out Front is a movement of moms dedicated to ensuring a livable climate for our kids and future generations. For more information visit our website: www.mothersoutfront.org