Councilmember Richards Named ‘Local Leader Creating Sustainable Communities'

The following was submitted to From The G-Man on November 11, 2015.

Albany – Last night, Environmental Advocates of New York honored seven local officials from across the state who are leading the fight for environmental and public health protections, including Queens Councilmember Donovan Richards (D-Laurelton).

Councilmember Richards was named a “Local Leader Creating Sustainable Communities” in part for his landmark work passing legislation to reduce carbon emissions 80 percent by 2050, which was signed into law this year and puts New York City on the path to a fossil fuel-free future. His work to ensure New York City becomes energy efficient through renewable energy like solar, and that all sectors of the economy from buildings to transportation are greener and cleaner, is key to protecting the city and its people from the harshest effects of climate change.

Peter Iwanowicz, executive director of Environmental Advocates of New York said, “What Councilmember Richards helped make happen in New York City is exactly the type of planning and blueprint for action that we need state and nationwide. Because of his work, every sector of the economy will move forward and grow in a way that is healthy, safe, and makes fewer kids and seniors sick. We need New York State to put its clean energy and carbon pollution goals into law – and thanks to the leadership of people like Councilmember Richards, we are a significant step closer to making that happen.” 

 

Other local leaders honored:

·         George Borrello, R-Chautauqua County Legislator

·         Patrick Burke, D-Erie County Legislator

·         Bryan Clenahan, D-Albany County Legislator

·         Stephanie Miner, D-Mayor of Syracuse

·         Dan McCoy, D-Albany County Executive

·         Marcus Molinaro, R-Dutchess County Executive

The watchdog organization also honored two Advocate Awards to medical professionals who conduct groundbreaking work – Doctors Frederica P. Perera and Diane Lewis. 

 

Dr. Perera has conducted research that revealed that children with high prenatal exposure to pollutants — common in vehicle exhaust and power plant emissions — exhibited increased signs of asthma, developmental delays, anxiety, depression and attention problems. Dr. Lewis is the founder of The Great Healthy Yard Project, an organization that focuses on reducing the use of synthetic chemicals commonly found in households, which harm people and local waterways.

 

Source: Environmental Advocates of New York