New York Leads on Conservation and Clean Energy
Building a clean energy economy while protecting natural resources.
In response to global warming, New York State set nation-leading goals to create a safer energy future and cut the pollution that causes climate change. The Nature Conservancy works with decision makers, partners and communities to shape and advocate for robust environmental funding and polices to advance the responsible development of renewable energy and the protection of the natural resources on which we all depend.
Policy
-
A Bright Future Requires Strong & Steady Environmental Leadership
The Nature Conservancy works across New York and around the world to protect clean water, reduce pollution, preserve wildlife habitat and help communities prepare for the effects of climate change. Watch the video.
-
State Leaders Put $4.2 billion Bond Act on November 2022 Election Ballot
New York voters now have an extraordinary opportunity to safeguard clean water, reduce pollution, protect farms and forests, and restore wildlife habitat all while creating good jobs and revitalizing neighborhoods. Learn more about the campaign.
-
New York Strengthens Protections for Freshwater Wetlands
In the 2023 state budget, the Governor and Legislature ensured small, freshwater wetlands can be protected for generations to come. Read about the wonder of wetlands.
-
Invasive Species Law Made Permanent to Protect Native Species
The new law creates permanent preventative policies that will help reduce aquatic invasive species in New York. Read our statement.
-
A Bright Future for Plum Island
Coalition wins key chance to preserve a secluded island and its many stories. Learn more about Plum Island’s intriguing history and exceptional wildlife. Read our story.
-
New York Enacts Strongest Climate Change Legislation in the United States
New York signed into law nation-leading climate legislation, the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, that will drastically cut carbon pollution and safeguard New York’s ambitious clean energy program. Read our statement.
-
The Return of the Most Important Fish in the Sea
As part of a diverse coalition of fishers, scientists and environmentalists, The Nature Conservancy helped secure protections for menhaden, a fish that serves as a primary food source for everything from striped bass and sea birds to whales. Read our story.
Tools
-
Turbine Reefs: New Approach to Designing Offshore Wind Power
Ocean experts show that opportunities for new reefs and clean energy go hand in hand. Read our report.
-
Long Island Solar Roadmap
This new report and webmap demonstrates how Long Island could increase solar energy generation and reduce carbon pollution. Crucially, the roadmap finds that these solar installations can be deployed without negatively affecting natural areas. Check out our roadmap.
-
Accelerating Large-Scale Wind and Solar Energy in New York
Meeting New York State’s goal of getting 70 percent of its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2030 will require a rapid build-out of solar and wind power across New York. Our report with the Alliance for Clean Energy New York shows how. Read our report.
Community
-
Our Clean Energy Future: A Toolkit for Supporting Solar and Wind Projects
Community involvement and support is critical for New York to transition to a clean energy economy. The Building Our Clean Energy Future: A Toolkit for Supporting Solar and Wind Projects, developed by TNC and New Yorkers for Clean Power, details how. Download our toolkit.
-
Uplands Farm Sanctuary
The Uplands Farm Sanctuary completed an energy makeover to become TNC’s first carbon neutral office in New York. This ambitious project includes rooftop solar, an electric vehicle charging station and energy efficiency upgrades. Explore our Uplands Farm Sanctuary.
Meet Our Team
Learn more about inspiring TNC leaders who have helped shape and secure landmark victories for conservation and clean energy.
-
Jessica Ottney Mahar
Director, Policy & Strategy in New York. Meet Jess.
-
Echo Cartwright
Director, Climate Mitigation in New York. Meet Echo.
Related Work
Future Forest NYC
The urban forest in New York City needs a clear, coordinated vision and more champions. Our initiative helps to make this a reality.
Six Pathways to a Clean and Green Energy Buildout
Accelerating clean energy development is critical—here’s how we do it the right way.
Suffolk County Passes Landmark Water Quality Legislation
The Nature Conservancy applauds the Suffolk County Legislature for making this important stride in addressing water-quality problems.