Greening New York State - NINTH PROGRESS REPORT ON STATE GREEN PROCUREMENT AND AGENCY SUSTAINABILITY - NINTH PROGRESS REPORT ON ...
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Department of NYSERDA NY Power
Environmental Authority
Conservation
Greening New York State
NINTH PROGRESS REPORT ON
STATE GREEN PROCUREMENT AND AGENCY SUSTAINABILITY
FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020
Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor | RoAnn M. Destito, Commissioner OGS | Basil Seggos, Commissioner DEC
Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO NYSERDA | Gil Quiñones, President and CEO NYPA
Message From the Chairs
Under Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s leadership, New York State government has
become a national leader in protecting our environment. The State’s commitment
to environmental stewardship is borne out not only in its policies, but in its opera-
tions as well. Through the GreenNY program, State agencies have taken a holistic
approach to lowering their environmental footprint across a wide range of areas
documented in this report, including waste reduction, reducing greenhouse gas
emissions, protecting habitat and sensitive ecosystems, green procurement, and
reducing the use of hazardous substances.
The GreenNY program is carried out by the interagency GreenNY Coun-
RoAnn M. Destito,
cil, co-chaired by the Department of Environmental Conservation, the Office of
Commissioner, Office of
General Services, the New York Energy Research and Development Authority, and
General Services
the New York Power Authority. The GreenNY Council oversees implementation of
the State’s “lead by example” operational directives, including those found in the
Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), Executive Orders 4,
18, 88, 166, the "New Efficiency: New York" whitepaper, the Renewable Heating
and Cooling Framework, and the Zero Emission Vehicle Memorandum of Under-
standing (ZEV MOU).
Greening New York State: Ninth Progress Report on State Green Procurement and
Agency Sustainability documents that State government is continuing its already
impressive progress on reducing its environmental footprint. Accomplishments
include a record amount of State agencies having active internal sustainability
teams/infrastructure, a record $211 million spent on green products, and finalizing Basil Seggos, Commissioner,
four new green purchasing specifications (bringing the total up to 61). Department of
Environmental Conservation
In addition, the FY 19–20 Report includes a new section on refrigerant manage-
ment, which outlines increased efforts to track and mitigate this category of poten-
tial emissions sources.
Great progress has been made through our collective efforts, and we continue to
establish new initiatives to further advance the improvements necessary to achieve
our priorities. The BuildSmart 2025 program was launched during 2020, which
supports efforts across State facilities to save 11 trillion Btu of energy from facil-
ities 5,000 sq. ft and larger by 2025. This ambitious goal shows what has been
made possible through the close interagency collaboration fostered through the
GreenNY Council.
Doreen M. Harris, Acting
We are proud of the work that State government is undertaking to decrease the President and CEO, NYS
environmental footprint of its operations and look forward to continued success Energy Research and
in the future. Development Authority
Gil Quiñones, President and
CEO, NY Power Authority
i | FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 GREENING NEW YORK STATE
Table of Contents
Guide to State Agency Acronyms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Executive Summary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Achieving the Promise of Sustainability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Operating Green. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
● Engaging the Green Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
● Waste Reduction and Reuse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
● Recycling, Composting, and Special Waste. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
● Reducing Hazardous Chemical Use. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
● Renewable Energy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
● Sustainable Transportation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
● Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
● Refrigerant Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
● Sustainable Landscaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
● Species and Habitat Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
● Water Conservation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
● Green Infrastructure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Savings and Costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Buying Green . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
● Buying Green . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
● Purchasing Recycled Paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
● Restricting the Use of Bottled Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
● Green Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Conclusion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
GREENING NEW YORK STATE FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 |1
Guide to State
Agency Abbreviations
Aging �����������Office for the Aging DPS �������������Department of Public Service
AGM �������������Agriculture and Markets DVS �������������Division of Veterans Services
APA �������������Adirondack Park Agency ECFSA ���������Erie County Fiscal Stability Authority
Arts ���������������Council on the Arts ECMC �����������Erie County Medical Center
BFSA �����������Buffalo Fiscal Stability Authority EFC ���������������Environmental Facilities Corporation
BOE �������������Board of Elections ESD ���������������Empire State Development
BPCA �����������Battery Park City Authority FCB ���������������Financial Control Board
CDTA �����������Capital District Transportation Authority Gaming �������Gaming Commission
CENTRO �����Central New York Regional GOER �����������Governor’s Office of Employee Relations
Transportation Authority
HCR �������������Homes and Community Renewal
CS �����������������Department of Civil Service
HESC �����������Higher Education Services Corporation
CPB �������������Central Pine Barrens Joint Planning &
Policy Commission HRBRRD �����Hudson River-Black River Regulating District
CUNY �����������City University of New York HRVG �����������Hudson River Valley Greenway
DANC �����������Development Authority of the North Country IG �����������������Office of the Inspector General
DASNY ���������Dormitory Authority of the State of New York ITS �����������������Information Technology Services
DCJS �����������Division of Criminal Justice Services JC �����������������Justice Center
DEC �������������Department of Environmental Conservation JCOPE ���������Joint Commission on Public Ethics
DFS ���������������Department of Financial Services LIPA �������������Long Island Power Authority
DHR �������������Division of Human Rights MTA �������������Metropolitan Transportation Authority
DHSES ���������Department of Homeland Security and NFTA �����������Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority
Emergency Services
NIFA �������������Nassau Interim Finance Authority
DMNA ���������Division of Military and Naval Affairs
Javits �����������New York Convention Center Operating
DMV �������������Department of Motor Vehicles Corporation
DOB �������������Division of Budget NYPA �����������New York Power Authority
DOCCS �������Department of Corrections and NYSBA ���������New York State Bridge Authority
Community Supervision
NYSCC ���������New York State Canal Corporation
DOH �������������Department of Health
NYSERDA ���New York State Energy Research and
DOL �������������Department of Labor Development Authority
DOS �������������Department of State NYSIF �����������New York State Insurance Fund
DOT �������������Department of Transportation OASAS ���������Office of Addiction Services and Supports
2 | FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 GREENING NEW YORK STATE
NYPA
OCFS �����������Office of Children and Family Services ▲ When COVID-19 hit in March 2020, NYPA staff was
sequestered at multiple critical energy facilities to ensure
OBPA �����������Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority that they could remain up and running without disruption.
NYPA was able to power the trailers they brought on
OGS �������������Office of General Services site to house staff by using their recently installed EV
charging stations, demonstrating a resiliency benefit of
OMH �������������Office of Mental Health EV infrastructure.
State Parks �Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic
Preservation
OPWDD �������Office for People with Developmental Disabilities
ORDA �����������Olympic Regional Development Authority
OTDA �����������Office of Temporary Disability Assistance
PERB �����������Public Employees Relations Board
POA �������������Port of Oswego Authority
RIOC �������������Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation
RGRTA ���������Rochester-Genesee Regional Transportation
Authority
SLA ���������������State Liquor Authority
SUNY �����������State University of New York
Tax ���������������Department of Tax and Finance
Thruway �����Thruway Authority
NYSP �����������New York State Police
UNDC�����������United Nations Development Corporation
WCB �������������Workers' Compensation Board
WCHC ���������Westchester County Health Corporation
GREENING NEW YORK STATE FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 |3
Executive Summary
State agencies continued to make progress in decreasing ● Sustainable Transportation – State agencies’ zero
their environmental footprints in FY 19–20 through sustain- emission vehicle fleets drove 4,433,019 miles, the
able operations and green purchasing programs. The holistic equivalent of traveling the length of the Erie Canal
nature of the GreenNY program that underlies their actions more than 12,212 times;
has led to impressive results across multiple areas, including:
● Water Conservation – State agencies are ahead of
● Waste Reduction, Recycling, and Composting – an upcoming requirements with 79% of state employ-
overall state agency recycling rate of 90%, a 24% ees working at agencies that have low-flow fixtures
increase from FY 18–19 due to improved construc- at all or most of their facilities;
tion and demolition data reporting. State agencies
also composted a total of 15,083 tons, including ● Green Infrastructure – expanded, with the comple-
6,928 tons of food scraps; tion of projects such as State Parks' newly created
intertidal pool at Roberto Clemente State Park;
● 73% of State agencies now implement integrated
pest management practices, which reduce or elimi- ● Species and Habitat Protection – improved, with the
nate the use of hazardous chemicals, at all or most completion of projects such as NYPA’s restoration
of their facilities. In addition, 80% utilize green of inland wetland habitats and DOT’s testing of a
cleaning practices at all or most of their facilities; topsoil alternative that helps native species;
● Energy Efficiency – State agencies exceeded their ● Buying Green – agencies spent $212,508,000 on
BuildSmart 2020 goal of 20% energy use intensity green products in FY 19–20;
reduction from larger facilities, and progress contin-
● Green Specifications – four new green purchasing
ued, with 16 agencies reporting capital upgrades to
specifications were approved in 2020 for the cate-
install LED lighting;
gories of adhesives, computers and displays, floor
● Renewables – State Parks, SUNY, OBPA, and coverings, and lubricants, bringing the total to 61
NYSBA combined generate nearly 6 million kilowatt green purchasing specifications;
hours of solar electricity annually;
● Purchasing Recycled Paper – 63% of dollars spent
● Refrigerant Management – the University at Alba- on copy paper in FY 19–20 went toward 100%
ny’s (SUNY) renovations of the old Albany High post-consumer recycled content, processed chlo-
School building will include installation of a cool- rine-free paper;
ing system that uses a refrigerant with a global
● Reducing the Purchase of Bottled Water – $92,759
warming potential that is 52% less than traditional
was saved through new initiatives across State
refrigerants;
agencies; and
Combined, the results contained in this progress report
demonstrate the commitment New York State agencies have
to leading by example for others to follow.
4 | FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 GREENING NEW YORK STATE
BY THE NUMBERS
11 90%
212+ $
BILLION
BTUs OF ENERGY overall state agency
2025
will be saved by RECYCLING RATE
MILLION
24%
spent by State agencies
ON GREEN PRODUCTS
in FY 19–20 increase
at state facilities through from
FY 18–19
the BUILDSMART
2025 PROGRAM
4.4
That’s enough to POWER
106,800
New York
State’s State agencies RECYCLED
1,020,627
ZEV
FLEET
NEW YORK STATE HOMES
traveled
MILLION MILES TONS OF MATERIALS
That’s equivalent
to traveling the
ERIE CANAL
4,536
12,000+
TIMES the
weight of the
STATUE OF
40,000
LIBERTY
TIMES
POUNDS OF FOOD
will be grown on the
61
JAVITS CENTER’S
NEW ROOFTOP FARM
per year
GREEN PURCHASING
SPECIFICATIONS
APPROVED
for use by State agencies
GREENING NEW YORK STATE FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 |5
Achieving the
Promise of Sustainability
Increasing sustainability in State government is a win-win ● The CLCPA is the strongest climate law in the nation
for both the environment and the economy. It significantly and will decrease New York State's greenhouse gas
reduces pollution and waste while saving taxpayer dollars. emissions 40% by 2030 and 85% by 2050. It also
Key benefits include: includes a sections directing State agencies, author-
ities, offices and divisions to lower greenhouse gas
● Saving money; emissions from operations, ensure their decisions
are not inconsistent with the attainment of the state-
● Reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions;
wide greenhouse gas emissions limits, and to prior-
● Reducing materials use; itize reductions of greenhouse gas emissions and
co-pollutants in disadvantaged communities.
● Reducing hazardous chemical use; and
● EO 4 directs the 74 State agencies and authorities
● Conserving water and other natural resources. covered by the Order to incorporate sustainability
into all aspects of their operations. To accomplish
That’s why New York has consistently set an example of envi- this, agencies are required to implement a Sustain-
ronmental stewardship for the rest of the nation. A series ability and Environmental Stewardship Program
of laws, executive orders (EOs), and policies have created and assign an employee to serve as Sustainability
a strong framework to support agencies as they strive to and Green Procurement Coordinator (“Sustainabil-
reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and adopt sustain- ity Coordinator”). EO 4 also created an Interagency
able practices. They include the Climate Leadership and Committee on Sustainability and Green Procure-
Community Protection Act (CLCPA), Executive Order No. 4 ment (“Interagency Committee”) co-chaired by the
(EO 4), EO 166, EO 88, EO 18, and the “New Efficiency: Commissioners of OGS and DEC.
New York” whitepaper.
● EO 166 calls on all affected State entities to take
action to meet the State’s greenhouse gas reduc-
tion goals by reducing emissions from all opera-
tions, buildings, and vehicle fleets.
● EO 88 required the same entities to reduce Source
Energy Use Intensity (EUI) in State-owned and
-managed buildings 25,000 square feet or greater
by at least 20% by 2020 from a baseline of FY 10–11.
Ultimately, affected entities exceeded this goal and
lowered EUI by 22% in covered buildings. Energy
efficiency continues to be a feature of agency activ-
ities and is now implemented through BuildSmart
2025, which is a program that helps agencies meet
the policy goal of reducing site energy use at build-
ing 5,000 sq/ft or greater by 11 trillion Btu by 2025
(from the baseline year of 2015).
● EO 18 directs executive agencies to “eliminate
the expenditure of State funds for the purchase of
bottled water.”
⊳ Students from the CUNY Hunter College sustainability
committee educate fellow students and employees at various
booths during “Green Week.”
Brian Calderon
6 | FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 GREENING NEW YORK STATE
DEC worked with the Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program
and other local partners to quickly delineate a hemlock woolly
adelgid infestation along the shore of Lake George, which
encompassed more than 250 acres. ⊲
Formally announced by Governor Cuomo in August 2020,
the GreenNY Council is a multiagency, silo-busting work-
ing group charged with helping agencies implement all the
State’s lead-by-example directives. The Council is co-chaired
by DEC, OGS, NYSERDA, and NYPA. Together, Coun-
cil members have worked to leverage resources, create
guidance, streamline sustainability reporting, and make it
easier for agencies to achieve Governor Cuomo’s climate
and sustainability goals. Agency reporting under EO 4, EO
166, EO 88, and EO 18 has been consolidated into one joint,
annual “GreenNY” reporting form since FY 18–19.
For FY 19–20, a record total of 70 agencies reported
under all the State’s climate and sustainability directives.
This summary compiles those reports. FY 18–19 and prior
progress reports for EO 4 and EO 18 can be found on the
GreenNY website, which includes more detailed information
and case studies on sustainable operations and purchasing.
Prior reports for EO 88 can be found here.
CURRENTLY, NEW YORK STATE GOVERNMENT:
16,000+
Operates Generates approximately
400,000
TONS of
FACILITIES
SOLID WASTE
200+
totaling
per year
25,000+
Operates
MILLION
SQUARE FEET
400 –
with an estimated annual
$ VEHICLES
$500 Spends approximately
$ 8
BILLION
MILLION per year on the
purchase of
UTILITY BILL
COMMODITIES,
In addition to the directives
listed here, there are many SERVICES, AND
State initiatives related to
climate or energy efficiency TECHNOLOGY
and the environment that both
inform and are supported by
agency sustainability.
DEC
GREENING NEW YORK STATE FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 |7
Operating Green
Engaging the Green Team
Agency climate and sustainability programs are made GreenNY Forum, this time virtually, which brought together
strong by the teams that develop and implement them. over 140 sustainability coordinators and State agency staff
The GreenNY Council has found that the strongest teams to network, share best practices, and learn about new tech-
have dedicated sustainability staff and participation by staff nologies and policies.
members across the organization,
including facilities, finance, and fleet In FY 19–20, 54 State agencies (76%
management, an executive sponsor, 11 agencies have fully of the total) reported having a part-
time sustainability coordinator, with
and a designated tenant representa-
tive, if applicable. Regular meetings
developed sustainability plans an additional nine agencies having a
of this team foster inter-departmen- to green operations statewide, full-time staff. Those nine State agen-
tal conversation and collaboration to cies are CUNY, DFS, DHR, DMNA,
spread sustainability to all corners while another 5 agencies report MTA, Javits, NYPA, State Parks,
and ORDA, which is up from the
of an agency. With the assistance
having plans in development. seven agencies that reported having
of the GreenNY Council, sustain-
ability coordinators and their teams a full-time staff in FY 18–19. A full list
can reach all staff through regular engagement and train- of sustainability coordinators can be found on the GreenNY
ing in the form of lunchtime learning webinars, informational Website. In FY 19–20, 32 agencies reported having a robust
signage placed around facilities, email newsletters, and sustainability team, an increase from 30 in FY 18–19.
more. In addition, the Council once again held its annual
SUNY Brockport’s full-time energy manager gaining additional
training from the New York Energy Manager team. ▼
NYPA
8 | FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 GREENING NEW YORK STATEJavits Center
Both large and small agencies have unique and robust meth- ▲ Employees at Javits come together to harvest honey from
ods of engaging employees in sustainability initiatives, some hives located on the top of the convention center to be made
examples include: into lip balm.
● DANC developed a sustainability training that all
new hires receive in orientation and all employees
take every 3 years; Percentage
of Agencies
● BPCA has an email address set up for employees FY18–19 FY19–20
to submit ideas for sustainability projects and ways Hold meetings at least twice a year
the authority can reduce its environmental impact; with sustainability team and the head 12% 20%
of agency
● CUNY campuses have a sustainability council that Hold regular meetings with sustain-
includes representation from multiple departments ability team and agency's deputies for 24% 24%
and students; and facility management and finance
Use resources on the GreenNY Share-
● NYSERDA includes sustainability announcements in Point site or the GreenNY public 69% 75%
its monthly e-newsletters and its sustainability coor- website
dinator holds trainings for all new hires and interns. Participate in webinars and activities
68% 80%
offered by the GreenNY team
Many agencies found success in FY 19–20 for their sustain-
Participate in the annual GreenNY
ability staffing, planning, training, and funding: 46% 48%
Forum
● AGM started meeting with employees who wanted Provide outward-facing sustainability
to start smaller sustainability projects and educate education and communications (e.g., 29% 32%
website and newsletter content)
co-workers on how they could also improve their
efforts; Convene their sustainability team to
discuss the reporting process on an 37% 38%
annual basis
● DFS is working with its communications team to
build an internal sustainability intranet page that
shares tips on promoting sustainability in its NYC
and Albany locations;
● Javits employees produced more than 1,000
containers of lip balm created with honey supplied
by hives on the roof of the convention center. This
gave hands-on experience and exposure to the
sustainability program; and
● SUNY Brockport tapped into NYSERDA funding to
hire a full-time energy manager.
GREENING NEW YORK STATE FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 |9Waste Reduction and Reuse
New York State agencies are leading by example in reduc- A few examples of successful waste prevention initiatives in
ing waste and incorporating reuse and repair into everyday FY 19–20 include:
operations. The GreenNY program has played a signifi-
cant role in how State agencies generate and handle waste ● RGRTA offered employees reusable tote bags,
through the training and support it offers agencies seeking water bottles, and travel mugs to encourage
to implement more ambitious waste reduction initiatives. employees to use reusable items instead of single-
Agencies reported generating 1,128,738 tons of waste in FY use, disposable items;
19–20, 80% of which was clean construction and demolition
● Javits Center provided event managers with a
(C&D) debris that was recycled (see "Recycling, Composting,
Sustainability Report Card that includes waste data
and Special Wastes"). This increase in waste generation is
for events broken down into waste streams and
attributed to improved waste tracking and reporting by State
amounts, and calculates a diversion rate for each
agencies.
event;
State agencies took action to reduce waste in numerous
● OBPA reused all wood and metal components that
ways in FY 19–20, including:
came from vessel operations to repackage wind
● Having procurement policies designed to prevent turbine components for return shipment overseas;
waste, such as ordering items with less plastic or and
polystyrene packaging;
● MTA’s cafeteria services vendor now prepares
● Employing practices to reduce wasted food at facil- production reports and inventory control proce-
ities; and dures to reduce waste and keep all parties informed
about waste generation. The vendor also works
● Performing waste audits to identify areas for with Island Harvest, the Long Island food bank, to
improvement. handle donations of excess food.
State agencies are leveraging a variety of waste preven- In addition to reducing waste,
tion programs, including the OGS State Surplus Property agencies have established Agencies reported
Program and developing their own agency- and facility-spe- creative reuse projects that
generating
cific programs to reduce waste and reuse materials wherever both save money and prevent
possible. Agencies with facilities that generate signifi- waste, including establish- 1,128,738 tons of
cant amounts of wasted food and food scraps have taken ing reuse programs in their
additional steps to plan smart to prevent waste and divert offices and facilities. 49% of waste in FY 19-20,
edible food where possible, including the SUNY Cortland, agencies report having an 80% of which was
Farmingdale, New Paltz, and the Poly campuses in Utica office supply reuse program in
and Albany. place at all (35%) or a majority clean construction
and demolition
(14%) of their facilities. Those
with more specialized waste
streams or unique materials (C&D) debris that
have demonstrated creativ-
ity in finding ways to reuse was recycled.
special items. For example,
State Parks' Finger Lakes region is disassembling rotting
picnic tables and using them to construct holding bins for
cardboard recycling. In addition, Medgar Evers College
(CUNY) removed and pulverized the Crown Street perimeter
sidewalk, consisting of two city blocks, to produce underlay-
ment materials and fill for an on-site capital construction proj-
ect. This project resulted in costs savings from the reduction
of transportation and carting fees, and the need to purchase
fill for the new project.
10 | FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 GREENING NEW YORK STATEOF REPORTING STATE AGENCIES:
94% 87% 44%
REDUCING PAPER WASTE
by providing the public with
set DEFAULT
PRINTER SETTINGS to
practice behavioral change techniques
such as IMPLEMENTING
DOUBLE-SIDED PRINTING INITIATIVES TO
DOCUMENTS AND shift individual attitudes to
INFORMATION (duplex printing)
ELECTRONICALLY REDUCE WASTE
▼ ALL —or— A MAJORITY ▼ ▼ ALL —or— A MAJORITY ▼ ▼ AT ALL —or— A MAJORITY ▼
28% 66% 52% 25%of the time of the time
31% 13% of their facilities
The NYSERDA Sustainability Team conducts a waste audit at
their headquarters building. Results from the audit were used to
identify ways to reduce the amount of waste generated by the
facility and to increase its recycling rate. ▼
Heather Saunders – NYSERDA Sustainability Coordinator
GREENING NEW YORK STATE FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 | 11Recycling, Composting, and Special Waste
Reporting for FY 19–20 continues to document a robust and A few examples of successful recycling and composting
encouraging trend of high recycling rates by State agen- initiatives in FY 19–20 include:
cies. In the last five reporting years, 66% or more of the solid
waste generated by agencies was recycled or composted, ● NYSERDA recycled almost 17,000 pounds of
compared to a 50% rate electronic waste this year and earned Gold-level
of recycling in FY 08–09. recognition for their participation in the State
FY 19–20 saw an over- State agencies Electronics Challenge for purchasing, operating
recycled or composted
all State agency recy- efficiently, and end-of-life handling of electronics;
cling rate of 90%, a 24%
increase from FY 18–19. 90% of all waste ● SUNY Maritime saw an increase in recycling of
metal, glass, and plastic materials after installing
generated in FY 19-20
Across all reporting
new recycling stations in dormitories;
agencies, 1,020,627 tons
of waste were recycled ● Hunter College (CUNY) recycled over 2,000 hard-
or composted in FY 19–20, including 902,810 tons of clean cover library books; and
construction and demolition debris (C&D). This large increase
in C&D debris is due to updated and improved reporting by ● DEC has entered a $5.75-million partnership with
DOT. SUNY ESF to help establish the New York State
Center for Sustainable Materials Management
State agencies, including NYPA and Gaming, have found at ESF. This partnership between DEC and SUNY
that updated and consistent signage has led to more will help develop a comprehensive plan to improve
employee buy-in, increased awareness of the issue of waste recycling in NYS and address recycling market
among employees, and support for agency-wide recycling challenges.
programs. Others report that staff training has been key to
improving both recycling rates and reducing contamination
of recycling streams. To address contamination challenges
experienced in previous years, Hunter College (CUNY)
offered a refresher training to staff to address the co-min-
gling of recycling streams.
Diverting organic waste and food scraps that cannot be
donated to recycling or anaerobic digestion reduces
methane generation in landfills and sequesters significant
amounts of elemental carbon, all while producing a benefi-
cial amendment that improves soil health and reduces the
need for energy-intensive fertilizers and hazardous pesti-
cides. State agencies composted a total of 15,083 tons,
including 6,928 tons of food scraps, in FY 19–20. Many agen-
cies that compost on-site report using the finished product in
landscaping projects leading to cost savings. University at
Buffalo (SUNY) composts on-site and offers the nutrient-rich
compost available at no cost to the campus and the greater
Western New York community.
BPCA
12 | FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 GREENING NEW YORK STATEBreakdowns of the total quantity of materials recycled by
agencies, on average, in FY 19–20. Because waste types are
406
In FY 19–20, DOT reported split out by weight, “office recyclables” (paper, bottles, and
cans) amount to significantly less than non-office recyclables,
which weigh more. C&D material includes concrete, asphalt,
brick, and clean wood that come from building construction,
renovation, and demolition, as well as highway construction
and maintenance. ▼
LANE MILES,
equivalent to
781,440 TONS, TONS OF MATERIAL
BY TYPE RECYCLED
of cold-in-place
BY EO4 REPORTING
ASPHALT RECYCLING ENTITIES FY 19–20
55,977 TONS
(5%)
⊳ BPCA has a longstanding composting program that is
growing steadily. When COVID-19 shut down composting, 20,882 TONS
BPCA accommodated the downtown community with compost (2%)
collection sites, enabling hard-won behavioral changes for
18,222 TONS
food waste management to continue to build throughout (2%)
the community. ▼
902,810 TONS 7,654 TONS 15,083 TONS
(88%) (1%) (1%)
Clean Office Recyclables
Construction Bulk Metals (paper, glass, etc. from
& Demolition all facilities, not just
Debris office buildings)
Maintenance
and Equipment Compostables Other
Recycling
20,882 TONS
(18%)
TONS OF
MATERIAL BY TYPE
RECYCLED BY EO4
REPORTING ENTITIES
FY 19–20
(CLEAN C&D 18,222 TONS
(15%)
EXCLUDED)
15,083 TONS
(13%)
55,977 TONS 7,654 TONS
(48%) (6%)
BPCA
GREENING NEW YORK STATE FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 | 13Reducing Hazardous Chemical Use
PEST MANAGEMENT GREEN CLEANING
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices focus on moni- Green cleaning is an “By limiting the use
toring, good sanitation, and structural controls, along with important tool that allows
the least-hazardous pesticide use. Most agencies continue State agencies to ensure of chemicals in our
work spaces, the DPS
to use IPM to prevent indoor pests. Integrated Vegetation their facilities meet a
Management (IVM) practices reduce the need for pesti- high level of cleanliness,
cides, promote healthy ecosystems, and provide measurable without compromising is hopefully providing
results, such as greater natural species diversity along rights- indoor air quality or
of-way and better control of invasive species. Most agencies potentially exposing staff an increased comfort
now solely use non-chemical means to control pests on their
lawns and grounds. About half of all agencies also practice
and visitors to hazardous
substances. Green clean-
level for its employees
IVM or IPM at exempt outdoor facilities, such as golf courses ing can involve using and reducing
and rights-of-way. less-hazardous chemi-
cals, reducing a facility’s reactions to allergens.”
A few examples of agencies following IPM and IVM in FY inventory of cleaning — DPS
19–20 include: products, using auto-
mated dispensers that accurately measure quantities to
● Javits required the use of sustainable farming meth-
avoid unnecessary use of higher volumes, and implementing
ods, including not using hazardous chemicals, as
methods that don’t require chemicals.
part of its new one-acre rooftop farm, and
A few examples of State agencies implementing green
● NYPA’s headquarters in White Plains successfully
cleaning in FY 19–20 include:
used dry ice to treat for a rat infestation in a garden
area, and the vegetation maintenance department ● College of Staten Island (CUNY) has switched
is implementing alternatives to glyphosate-based to a hydrogen peroxide-based cleaner that uses
herbicides at its facilities and rights-of-way. plant-derived natural orange oil and biodegradable
hydrogen peroxide at 3% as an alternative to chlo-
Most agencies now solely use rine-based and quaternary ammonium compounds,
non-chemical means to control ● RIOC’s department heads make sure they prioritize
the OGS-approved green cleaning products lists
pests on lawns and grounds. when buying cleaning and sanitizing products, and
● SUNY Purchase’s Custodial Department explored
various options and now exclusively purchases
Javits rooftop farm will exist atop its historic expansion project,
opening mid-2021. The one-acre farm will yield about 40,000 green cleaning products. In addition, staff are
pounds of produce each year and will provide a roof-to-table trained in mixing solutions via chemical stations,
experience unlike any other. ▼ using microfiber and other green practices.
In FY 19–20, agencies leveraged the Green Cleaning Program
website and the Tip Sheet on the OGS website for resources
on implementing green cleaning practices and purchasing
approved green cleaning products. While disinfectants are
not included on the list of Green Cleaning products, there are
numerous disinfectants on the market that meet the GreenNY
Specification for Disinfectants and Sanitizers, which were
successfully employed by agencies during the reporting period.
In addition, the GreenNY Council began asking agencies about
laboratory chemical management for the first time this report-
ing cycle to learn more about what actions can be taken to
decrease potential exposure to hazardous substances. The
Council found that work is already under way in this area with
Borough of Manhattan Community College (CUNY) having
already reviewed and revised some of its chemistry labs to use
Javits Center
less-hazardous chemicals.
14 | FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 GREENING NEW YORK STATEBMCC
One of State Parks’ IPM success stories is at Nissequogue River State Park on Long
Island. Staff at the greenhouse there propagate plants for around the Long Island State
Park Region, and a few years ago they cut pesticide use and began using praying
mantises as biological pest control. The mantises have stayed around from year to year,
and no pesticides or insects have been purchased since. ▼
Brian Schweizer
▲ Borough of Manhattan Community
College (CUNY) has reviewed and revised
chemistry labs in some of its courses to
use less-hazardous chemicals.
OF REPORTING STATE AGENCIES:
73% 80% 79%
NOW IMPLEMENT IPM
at all or most of their
reported using general purpose
GREEN CLEANERS
INDOOR FACILITIES utilize green cleaning practices that at all or a majority of their facilities
MINIMIZE THE AMOUNT OF
CHEMICAL CLEANING
PRODUCTS USED
~
at all or a majority of their facilities
50% 45%
These practices include the
USE OF WALK-OFF MATS,
MICROFIBER MOPS
AND CONTROLLED
DILUTION SYSTEMS
for concentrated products
USE NON-CHEMICAL AVOID PURCHASING
nursery stock that is
means of
TREATED WITH
PEST MANAGEMENT
for turf and ornamental plantings INSECTICIDES
at all or most of their facilities at all or most of their facilities
GREENING NEW YORK STATE FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 | 15Renewable Energy
State agencies continue to expand their renewable energy Examples of projects entered into, or implemented, in FY
initiatives, with 20% of agencies reporting using some form 19–20 include:
of renewable energy. However, with the addition of large
solar installations, availability of power purchase agree- ● State Parks completed 5 new photovoltaic (PV)
ments, addition of community solar projects, and the Gover- arrays, which are projected to produce around
nor’s announcement of upcoming offshore wind projects, 136,000 kilowatt hours, and save the agency over
we expect significant increases in renewable energy use by $18,000 each year. These new arrays raises the total
State agencies in the near future. number of PV arrays at NYS Parks facilities to 31;
Most renewable energy usage reported is generated from ● DOT’s new Ithaca Residency includes a hybrid
solar arrays located both on and off site. State Parks, SUNY, geothermal HVAC system using both ground and
OBPA, and NYSBA combined generate nearly 6 million kilo- air source heat pumps, and also has solar panels
watt hours of on-site solar electricity annually. This offsets on the roof;
4,200 metric tons of carbon emissions, the equivalent to
● OGS intends to enter into a power purchase agree-
the electricity use
ment that will provide half of the electricity for the
of more than 700
homes for a year.
State Parks, SUNY, OBPA, Empire State Plaza. The size of the array is expected
to be between 30 to 40 megawatts. The agency
In addition, ORDA and NYSBA combined expects the project to be complete in 2022;
and SUNY reported
generating more than generate nearly 6 million ● SUNY ESF is participating in the NYSERDA/NYPA
11.5 million kilowatt
kilowatt hours of on-site geothermal program and hopes to have geothermal
hours of offsite solar heat pumps installed in the next year;
in the form of power solar electricity annually
purchase agreements. ● DMNA secured federal funding for a rooftop solar
system at its Farmingdale Armory; and
● Javits is continuing work with NYPA on the largest
A new 15 kW solar array was installed in FY 19–20 on the roof of solar installation in Manhattan to date, a 3.29 mega-
the Visitors Center at the Walkway Over the Hudson State Park. ▼ watt installation with 2 megawatt of battery storage.
NYS Parks
16 | FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 GREENING NEW YORK STATEDOT’s new Ithaca residency facility features solar panels to
generate renewable electricity and both ground and air source
heat pumps for renewable heating and cooling. Pictured are the
propylene glycol storage containers, which hold the fluid that
moves heat throughout the system. ▼
DOT
NYS Parks NYS Parks
▲ An Excelsior Conservation Corps team works with State ▲ State Parks staff in East River State Park in New York City
Parks maintenance staff to install a 38 kW array behind the retrofit 23 solar light poles with new panels and batteries.
maintenance barn at Darien Lake State Park in Western New York.
RENEWABLE ENERGY CREDITS STATE AGENCY SOLAR ENERGY GENERATION (in kWhs) ▼
While some agencies have land on which to build on-site
renewable energy projects and some have large enough SUNY: 7,007,786
electricity usage to justify an on- or off-site power purchase
ORDA: 6,019,823
agreement, other agencies purchase renewable energy
credits (RECS) to help meet their goals. Power generators State Parks: 1,807,675
create RECs when a renewable energy source generates
one megawatt hour of electricity and delivers it to the grid; OBPA: 1,172,707
power generators can then sell these credits to other enti-
ties, such as State agencies. This allows agencies to support Thruway: 684,000
renewable energy production and take credit for the associ-
NYSBA: 507,360
ated environmental benefits even though the specific proj-
ects are not associated with their facilities. Some agencies CUNY: 360,369
such as OGS are required to purchase RECS. RECs are sold
by the MWh. State agencies that purchase RECs include NFTA: 200,680
DASNY (2), DOL (50), NYSBA (122), OGS (5,168), and SUNY
(21,526). DEC: 89,759
DOCCS: 35,000
NYSERDA: 3,195
OGS: 2,200
GREENING NEW YORK STATE FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 | 17Sustainable Transportation
New York State is a national leader in lowering greenhouse A few examples of successful sustainable transportation
gas emissions from the transportation sector through poli- projects during FY 19–20 include:
cies and programs, such as record investments in our public
transportation infrastructure, and NYSERDA’s Drive Clean ● EFC reduced VMT by 25% over the previous year,
and ChargeNY programs. However, even with the aggres- bringing their five-year reduction up to 45%;
sive action that the State has taken, transportation is still the
● BFSA offers employees reimbursement for public
largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in New York.
transportation fare up to the value of the employee
That’s why State agencies are continuing to take action to
parking benefit;
lower these emissions, including:
● Queens College (CUNY) implemented shuttle
● Decreasing vehicle miles traveled (VMT), with 57%
buses from subways stations to the campus;
of the agencies that reported VMT over the past two
years reporting a decrease in VMT; ● University at Albany (SUNY) provided univer-
sal access to the CDPHP bike share system to all
● Using webinars and teleconferencing to reduce
students and staff; and
meeting travel; and
● CDTA added 4 new electric buses to its fleet.
● Using carpooling and fleet management practices
to make sure the most efficient vehicle is used for In addition to lowering emissions from business-related
the task. travel, agencies are working to lower emissions from
employee commuting as well. In fact, New York State
TOTAL VMT REPORTED IN FY 19–20* employees commute using public transportation at 4 times
204.5
the national average and policies such as the increased use
3%
of telework, increased promotion of the 511NY Rideshare
carpool matching system, and the New York State Rides
program, which allows employees to pay for transit fares
with pre-tax dollars, are continuing to lower emissions from
decrease from
FY 18–19 employee commutes.
MILLION MILES More electric vehicle New York State
charging stations were
also installed during the
employees commute
*by 60 agencies reporting period, includ- using public
ing installations by ORDA
(at Gore Mountain), LIPA, transportation
at 4 times the
This year, all New Yorkers were encouraged to join New York State Parks, and the OMH.
State in taking action on climate change by taking the Car-Free Installations such as these
for Climate pledge stating that they would not drive their car for
at least one day during Climate Week NYC in September. ▼
are aiding in the adop- national average.
tion of electric vehicles by
state employees, with 1.5% of employees commuting using
a plug-in vehicle. In addition, state employees, as well as
all New Yorkers, were invited to participate in this year’s
Car-Free for Climate event, which took place in September
and encouraged participants to not drive a car at least one
day out of this year’s Climate Week NYC.
AVERAGE FUEL EFFICIENCY
24
of a state agency fleet
DEC
MPG
18 | FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 GREENING NEW YORK STATE⊳ HRVG partnered with
AGM to complete a section
of the Empire State Trail
through the New York
State Fairgrounds. The
trail section is open year-
round except during the
Fair, addressed a prior
14 mile gap in the Empire
State Trail, and allows
people to bike from
downtown Syracuse to
the Fairgrounds.
4.4
HRVG
4% 25 %
New York
State’s
ZEV
FLEET
traveled
BY
2025
MILLION MILES
That’s equivalent
to traveling the
ZERO EMISSION
VEHICLES
ERIE CANAL
12,000+
(ZEVs)
Make up of the state’s Percentage of light-duty, non-emergency
TIMES current light duty fleet vehicle purchases that will be ZEVs
RGRTA now has the highest percentage of electric buses in its fleet of any transit agency A DOT-led installation of 9 EV charging
in the state. The Authority expects their current electric buses to lower greenhouse gas stations for fleet use by DOT and DEC
emissions by 905 metric tons annually with a total cost of ownership savings of $187,000 at their Long Island City offices. These
per bus compared to traditional diesel buses. ▼ chargers have been integrated into DOT’s
fleet management program, and the data
from the charging station allows DOT
to track metrics like energy usage and
mileage for preventative maintenance
purposes. ▼
RGRTA DEC Region 2 Sustainability Team
GREENING NEW YORK STATE FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 | 19Energy Efficiency
In accordance with the Climate Leadership and Commu- ations and maintenance (O&M), energy audits, and capital
nity Protection Act (CLCPA) and through continued activi- improvements. State agencies have already begun to take
ties under the BuildSmart 2025 initiative, State agencies are action in all three of these areas, including:
continuing to become more energy efficient. Over the past
10 years, tremendous progress has been made to lower the O&M
energy use intensity from buildings over 20,000 square feet. ● OMH operates its facilities using a preventive main-
Agencies not only met the 20% reduction goal by 2020, but tenance approach, rather than a run until failure
exceeded it. To continue this progress, BuildSmart 2025 was approach. This allows them to plan and budget
launched. for equipment replacement before the equipment
fails. It also provides an opportunity for a thorough
State agencies are working to meet the BuildSmart 2025 goal review of the replacement technology, including
of 11 trillion Btu of site energy savings by 2025 by creating consideration of higher efficiency equipment.
efficiency plans and executing energy efficiency projects. The
effort covers all build- ● OMH’s Capital District Psychiatric Center worked
with DASNY to develop and design an advanced
ings over 5,000 square
feet. These projects
In FY 19-20, more than building management system (BMS), replacing an
will also contribute to 25% of State agencies outdated system that was requiring regular repair
carbon reduction targets and hard-to-find parts. This computer-based control
under the CLCPA. achieved cost savings system facilitates O&M by controlling the building's
mechanical and electrical equipment and continu-
BuildSmart 2025 lays resulting from energy ously checking to ensure equipment is performing
out three recommended
use reduction efforts as intended when it was designed.
focus areas for State
agencies to act in: oper- they pursued. ENERGY AUDITS
● CUNY, NYSERDA, and OCFS all plan to conduct,
are conducting, or completed energy audits.
CUNY’s study identified 27 energy conservation
measures, such as piping insulation, retro commis-
OBPA replaced 30 street
and parking lot light fixtures
sioning, and operational and behavioral measures.
that used sodium vapor to
LED at its Bridge facility CAPITAL PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION
and Border Station ▼ ● DOL is including a requirement that all lighting be
LED for new leases.
● HCR completed LED lighting design at one of its
new spaces, which provides a 47% reduction from
the energy code mandated minimum efficiency
requirements. The agency also has occupancy sensor-
based lighting controls throughout the entire space,
which helps reduce unnecessary electricity usage.
● OBPA completed a re-lamping of its bridge facility
with LED lighting, and recovered energy savings of
nearly 32%.
● OMH has undertaken one of the largest energy
NYSERDA
efficiency projects in New York State, which
includes the conversion of several thousand fluo-
rescent lamps to more energy efficient LED lamps,
▲ NYSERDA Flex Tech (energy saving over 3.7 MWh in usage and reducing overall
study) consultant taking airflow demand by over 820 kW.
measurements to determine
HVAC system performance ● SUNY Oneonta is saving roughly $20,000/year by
related to outdoor air intake. converting site lights to LED.
OBPA
20 | FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 GREENING NEW YORK STATERefrigerant Management
Almost all refrigerants in use today are powerful green- The Council has begun work to reduce leakage and ulti-
house gases. Leaked refrigerants are estimated to make up mately eliminate the use of high GWP refrigerants in State
roughly 5% of New York State’s greenhouse gas emissions, government operations. This year, for the first time, infor-
a percentage that may increase over time as other sources mation was collected from agencies as part of GreenNY
of emissions decrease. Refrigerants are found mainly in three reporting on relevant equipment, the refrigerants present
types of equipment used by State in their equipment, and current refrig-
agencies: custom-installed equipment
Refrigerants make up roughly erant management plans. The data
(chillers, heat pumps, rooftop units, collected will inform future actions,
etc.), smaller sealed equipment (refrig- 5% of New York State’s such as education and outreach and
erators, coolers, etc.), and in vehicle potential new internal refrigerant
air conditioning units. greenhouse gas emissions. management policies. In addition, the
Council added a refrigerant manage-
While working to reduce, and ultimately eliminate, leaked ment page to the GNY website, created an interagency
refrigerant emissions is the first step toward eliminating refrigerant management working group, and provided a
their impact on the climate, there are also new, non-ozone training session to agency staff on refrigerant management
depleting and low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrig- at this year’s GreenNY Forum.
erants available on the market. The GWP meassures how
much heat they trap compared to CO2. Examples of low GWP
refrigerants include, R-32A (GWP of 672), R-290 (GWP of 3),
As part of the renovations of the old Albany High School building
and R-744 (GWP of 1). These technological advances will give
to become the planned home of the College of Engineering and
agencies the opportunity to procure low GWP refrigerants
Applied Sciences, the University at Albany (SUNY) designed
that, even if leaked, will have a significantly lower impact on the cooling system to use a low-GWP refrigerant that has a
the climate. 52% lower impact on the climate if leaked than the traditional
refrigerant (R513a – GWP of 631 vs. R134a – GWP 1,300).
Read this tip sheet to learn more about the project. ▼
University at Albany (SUNY)
GREENING NEW YORK STATE FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 | 21Sustainable Landscaping
More than ever, we are celebrating open space for its restor- In February of 2020, AGM, DEC, and State Parks announced
ative effect and recognizing our dependence on the health the 2020 Pollinator Protection Plan Update. The update outlines
of our natural systems. Sustainable landscapes are places actions taken since the creation of the first Pollinator Protection
around or near the built environment which incorporate Plan in June of 2016, and provides several recommendations
native plantings, use little to no pesticides, preserve and to further the State’s goals to protect its pollinator popula-
conserve water, and tions. The Pollinator Protection Plan has advanced many of
create habitat for wild- 80% of State agencies the State’s goals to protect its pollinator populations, including
life. The benefits of developing voluntary best management practices for all polli-
sustainable landscapes use sustainable nator stakeholders and developing habitat enhancement efforts
include maintenance
landscaping practices to protect and revive populations of native and managed polli-
cost savings while also nators. State agencies, such as DEC, State Parks, DOT, Thru-
enhancing the beauty that preserve, protect, way, and OGS, have contributed to enhancing habitats and
of the landscape and implementing best management practices for pollinators. Agen-
supporting wildlife. and promote the use of cies have conducted pollinator surveys; reduced or altered
Sustainable landscap- native or non-invasive mowing practices to avoid disruptions to pollinator life cycles,
ing also increases New provide late-season forage and aid in wildflower seed disper-
York’s resilience in the vegetation to support sal; planted pollinator friendly trees and flowers in landscap-
wildlife and pollinators.
face of climate change. ing; installed bee boxes in viable areas; implemented 11 critical
projects that enhanced native pollinator habitat; and educated
the public on the diversity and importance of native pollinators.
The Native Plant Center at Westchester Community College State agencies continued their leadership in sustainable land-
has been dedicated to promoting the use of native plants in scaping in FY 19–20 by implementing new projects, including:
residential, commercial, and municipal landscapes throughout
the region since 1998 through partnerships, conferences, and ● Brooklyn College’s (CUNY) Leonard and Claire Tow
classes. The Center designed and maintains three native plant Center for the Performing Arts Center features land-
demonstration gardens with over 250 species native to New York scaping that includes xeriscaping, native and pollinator
and the Northeast. Education is central to the Center’s mission. species, and a section was designed as a rain swale;
Science students and professors study how pollinators interact
with native species and their cultivars in the Native Plant Center’s ● State Parks opened a newly created intertidal pool
trial research bed. ▼ at Roberto Clemente State Park which diverts storm-
water from the combined sewer system and into a
natural storm water management system;
● SUNY Morrisville incorporated only native plant-
ings and bioswales as the landscaping for a new
$12 million buried electrical system; and
● SUNY Empire eradicated the invasive burning bush
plant at one of their facilities and then incorporated
60%
new native plantings.
69%
OF AGENCIES
CONSIDER
WATER
CONSER-
USE SUSTAINABLE VATION
LANDSCAPING SOIL in irrigation
The Native Plant Center management practices management plans
22 | FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 GREENING NEW YORK STATE10
2020 University of Buffalo/Meredith Forrest Kulwicki
▲ University at Buffalo (SUNY), the UB Bees project has a
mission to educate the UB and local community about honey
bees and beekeeping thorough lectures, workshops, and hands-
on experience. It also brings the community to nature and its
restorative qualities while reducing the fear of bees and increasing
AGENCIES knowledge of the importance of bees in our food system.
USE FINISHED COMPOST
from food scraps or plant material
IN THEIR LANDSCAPES
NYPA continues to manage a robust integrated vegetation
management program along its rights of way that supports a
rich pollinator habitat. NYPA is taking further steps to support
biodiversity by planting pollinator gardens and meadows at
its facilities. A new pollinator garden at the Niagara Power
Vista visitors center will serve as an a living classroom for
school groups and other visitors, promoting the importance
of biodiversity and sustainable landscapes. ▼ ⊲
NYPA NYPA
GREENING NEW YORK STATE FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 | 23Species and Habitat Protection
INVASIVE SPECIES Twelve agencies engaged in invasive species survey and
Invasive species are non-native organisms that can cause removal activities during FY 19–20. A few examples of their
harm to the environment, the economy, and/or human health. accomplishments include:
Advantages such as a lack of predators, the ability to adapt
to various habitat conditions, and faster reproductive rates ● DOT implemented several projects to remove or
allow certain non-natives to expand their populations quickly. prevent the growth of invasive species and restore
Invasive species can outcompete natives for resources, native ecosystems, including a partner project with
disrupt food webs, spread disease among humans and live- NYS Parks that involved the removal of invasive
stock, damage crops, and negatively impact recreation and plants, planting hundreds of native trees, and the
associated income. They can be introduced intentionally establishment of a pollinator area;
(e.g., when invasive plants
● Ten SUNY schools—Morrisville, Purchase, Bing-
are used for landscaping)
or unintentionally (e.g.,
State agencies play hamton, Brockport, Oneonta, Oswego, Fredonia,
Geneseo, Farmingdale, and Potsdam—have incor-
when wood borers hitch a significant role porated some form of invasive species manage-
a ride in firewood). As a
hub for international trade in preventing the ment into their curriculums and into the care of
their facilities. Faculty and students alike have been
and travel, New York has
spread of invasive involved in survey and planning activities, as well as
one of the highest rates of
implementing management plans and conducting
non-native introductions species by actively research; and
in the country, but State
agencies play a signifi- surveying their land, ● DANC began treating wild parsnip infestations at
cant role in preventing the catching infestations two of its facilities in 2016, using only seed head
spread of invasive species removal after determining that mowing, hand-pull-
by actively surveying their early, and restoring ing, and pesticide use could increase the spread
native ecosystems.
land, identifying infesta- potential or harm surrounding plants, pollinators,
tions early, and restoring and employees. By 2020, the infestations had been
native ecosystems. reduced from several hundred to just a few plants.
DANC will continue to manage the areas until all the
remaining seed bank has been exhausted.
DOT tested the use of a topsoil alternative—a soil medium that
improves depleted soils with organic matter—to aid in the growth of
native vegetation that would otherwise be outcompeted by invasive
plants due to the poor growing conditions. Staff will be evaluating
the success of the alternative for use in future projects. ▼
DOT
24 | FISCAL YEAR 2019–2020 GREENING NEW YORK STATEYou can also read
