Peter on the Issues: Environment
Vallone is a strong believer in protecting the environment, both for ourselves and future generations. He has encouraged the use of energy efficient policies – such as clear air taxis and green buildings – in order to decrease our dependence on pollution-causing generators. Even before getting elected, Vallone was counsel for the local anti-smog group C.H.O.K.E. (Coalition Helping Organize a Kleaner Environment), which led the movement to reduce the harmful smoke billowing from Astoria’s power plants. With C.H.O.K.E., Vallone filed a lawsuit that led to the eventual closure of the Charles Poletti power plant, the worst polluter in the state. A pioneer of clean air legislation, Vallone passed the first bill ever to limit CO2 emissions in a major city, setting the basis for the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, which is a seven-state effort to reduce dangerous emissions. In addition, Vallone wrote the landmark Plastic Bag Recycling Act, which established film and plastic bag recycling in New York City. He has also been a friend to animals, offering his support to causes that reduce cruelty to pets and livestock. Peter Vallone, Jr. is certainly a councilman with a kind heart and a green thumb.
10/29/07- NY1- Vallone co-sponsors bill to reduce number of plastic bags in NYC's landfills (VIDEO)
Sponsored Legislation:
Int 0640-2007-A: Requires a recycling program for plastic carryout bags.
Green Tips for HomeownersResources for Saving Money and Energy
Department of Buildings
Green Roof and Solar Tax Abatement
Build it Green! NYC Built it Green! NYC New York City's only non-profit retail outlet for salvaged and surplus building materials
Con Edison Choose Green or Wind Power
NY State Weatherization Assistance Program This program assists income-eligible families and individuals by reducing their heating/cooling costs and improving the safety of their homes through energy efficiency measures.
