New York announces statewide community air monitoring initiative

It is said to be the first of its kind project in the US, which will identify 10 areas to deploy monitoring technology to collect air quality data, including in disadvantaged communities

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a new statewide community air monitoring initiative, believed to be the first of its kind in the US.

The State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) will identify 10 areas to deploy monitoring technology to collect air quality data, including in multiple disadvantaged communities.

Monitoring will include greenhouse gas emissions and other co-pollutants that affect public health, identifying the areas experiencing the highest air quality impacts.

DEC’s Environmental Justice Program will provide up to $500,000 (£366,019) in grants to community groups to contribute to the development and operation of air monitoring networks.

The initiative will support the state’s climate goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 85% by 2050.

SOURCE - Energy News Live - Priyanka Shresta