renewable energy

During the recent presidential debates Senator John McCain said developing green technologies and alternative energies can "get our economy going by creating millions of jobs." On this point Senator Barak Obama agreed: "If we create a new energy economy, we can create 5 million jobs, easily, here in the United States." 

Despite the enthusiasm of the presidential candidates, in recent days we've seen lots of old-style thinking that the financial crisis would require steming efforts to build a green economy. The concern is that a recession is the wrong time to increase the costs of energy by regulating or taxing carbon dioxide emissions.  read more »

The good news from the presidential campaign is that even though Senator McCain and Governor Palin have resorted to swift-boat tactics, the fundamental issue of economic well-being has begun to dominate the race for the White House. In the past, that would be bad news for environmental protection and sustainable development, as we’d be hearing we can either have either economic growth or environmental protection. Fortunately, Senator Obama is connecting economic well-being with energy efficiency and renewability, and he often links science and technology, education and health care with the growth of our economy. While Senator McCain is not articulating as comprehensive a case for sustainability, he clearly understands the need for a focus on renewable energy and basic research and development.  read more »

Last week Mayor Michael Bloomberg proposed that New York City engage in a serious effort to develop alternative energy sources, and in return for his trouble he faced skepticism and even ridicule from a cynical media. Cartoons were drawn with King Kong trying to swat a windmill off the top of the Empire State Building. Still, even the tabloids could not dismiss the idea entirely. Bloomberg commands respect, and $4 a gallon gasoline has everyone looking for alternatives.

New York City has been built by people who dreamed large and were able to project into the future. Imagine the city without Central, Van Cortland or Prospect Parks.  read more »

On March 17, 2008, Lieutenant Governor and former State Senator David Paterson was suddenly placed in the center of Albany's storm and assumed the Office of Governor. While it may seem premature, we decided to review the environmental record of his first 100 days. New York State's League of Conservation Voters is known for their thoughtful representation of the electorate's interest, so we asked them for their view of our accidental governor's environmental record. Marcia Bystryn, president of the New York League of Conservation Voters observed that:

"In the course of his first 100 days, Governor Paterson has shown that he can work effectively with the Legislature and that he understands the importance of an environmental agenda.  read more »