Preserving and protecting for future generations

Understanding the impacts of energy production and use can help inform policy and protect the environment.

Consider the environment

The world around us bears the weight of how we generate and consume energy. Researchers, government agencies, industry, and the environmental community are working to understand the extent of that burden, how to reduce it, and how much progress we have made. Environmental monitoring, data collection, and modeling provide scientifically credible and objective information. Using that information, policymakers can develop science-based and cost-effective policies to mitigate impacts on the planet.

Act on climate change

Using energy efficiency practices, innovative technology, and sound policy can help slow the effects of climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. The impacts of climate change in our everyday lives can serve as inspiration for creative solutions and action.

Keeping the air clean

Keep Air Clean

A healthy environment depends on a sustainable relationship between humans and nature. But it’s complicated. Understanding the nature of energy-related pollution and its impacts crosses air quality, health, climate, and ecosystem response research areas. Therefore, researchers monitor a range of air pollutants generated within and beyond New York State’s borders for their effects on public health. Air pollutants of concern range from particulate matter to ozone.

From sky to stream

from sky to steam

Many bodies of water across the Northeast have become too acidic to support aquatic life, and even small amounts of mercury can have serious health and environmental effects. Over the years, policymakers have adapted emissions standards to reduce the amount of acid and mercury raining down on rivers, lakes, and streams. And environmental monitoring shows that in some areas, the policy is working — and having a big effect.