Activists Criticize Governor's Energy Plan

John Mitty Thursday, March 6, 2014

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has recently proposed a new energy plan, but that plan has already come under fire at a public hearing in Farmingdale.  Environmental activists present at the hearing have stated that Cuomo’s plan will do little to slow adverse climate change, and may even make problems worse.  Eric Weltman, senior organizer for Food & Water Watch, explains that Cuomo’s plan would reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but would cause other problems because the plan relies on hydraulic fracturing (also known as “fracking”) for natural gas. 

Fracking is being used widely throughout the United States, but it is a controversial technique for a couple of reasons.  Firstly, it requires the expensive transport of vast quantities of water.  Secondly, it requires the use of chemicals which may be carcinogenic and contaminate groundwater.  Fracking can also cause small earthquakes.  The hearing was held at SUNY Farmingdale College, and was attended by around 70 people.  The governor has yet to respond to the criticism presented at the panel for his plan.  At the hearing, alternative plans were also presented for wind power projects which could safely and environmentally help to provide power on Long Island.     

jmitty@longislandyellowpages.com

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