Shows
Putting Out the Planetary Fire200 Advocates Rally to Put People Over PlasticsOn Tuesday, January 28, over 200 advocates came to the State Capitol to join faith leaders and elected officials to urge the state legislature to pass the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act and the Bigger Better Bottle Bill, kicking off this year’s campaign to end plastic pollution, save tax dollars, provide new revenue for localities, reduce plastic packaging, and protect New Yorkers’ health. The Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act will reduce plastic packaging by 30% incrementally over 12 years, as well as phase out some of the most toxic chemicals used in packaging, including PFAS and vinyl chloride. It will slas...
2025-02-0909 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireLandfill Leachate Pollutes Mohawk And Hudson RiversA new report found that gaps in environmental regulations enabled 89 million gallons of landfill leachate, chemically-laced water runoff, to be dumped into the Mohawk and Hudson rivers annually from 2019 to 2023. Many communities obtain their drinking water from these rivers. Leachate is created as water such as rain or snow melt percolates through landfills, becoming toxic after picking up chemicals from consumer, construction and industrial waste. Mark Dunlea of the Hudson Mohawk Magazine talks with Rebecca Martin and Jen Epstein of the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers Leachate Collaborative. (photo by Judith German-Heins)
2024-12-1910 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate and Resource WarsOn December 17, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace held a forum on Climate Change and Resource Wars. Many wars are fought over access to resources, such as oil and rare minerals, major factors in the present conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. The military accounts for an estimated 5% of the global greenhouse emissions and diverts critical funds from the transition to a clean energy future. In this report we hear from Pippa Bartolotti of BNP, Mark Dunlea of the Green Education and Legal Fund, and Mary Finneran.
2024-12-1909 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireRewiring America - Health Benefits from Electric AppliancesRewiring America has released Breathe easy: Household electrification as a public health intervention to improve outdoor air quality, a new analysis that models the health benefits of electrifying homes in communities across the U.S. Electrifying the nation’s homes would notably improve outdoor air quality, leading to 3,400 fewer premature deaths, 1,300 fewer hospital admissions and ER visits, 220,000 fewer asthma attacks, and 670,000 fewer days of reduced activity or missed work for Americans each year. Wael Kanj of Rewiring America talks to Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-12-1909 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireRenewable Heat Now Launch at Capitol (Part 2)
The three day occupation at the Capitol which began on Dec. 10 to urge Governor Hochul to sign the Climate Superfund Act ended by joining a press conference outside the Assembly chambers on Dec. 12 in support of the Renewable Heat Now campaign, one of a dozen regional events across the state. The campaign includes support for the Renewable Capitol Act and the NY HEAT Act. In part 2 of our coverage, we hear from Assemblymember Phil Steck; Liz Moran of Earth Justice; Michael Hernandez of Rewiring America; 3 students from RPI Sunrise, including Kriti Sharma and Hannah Miller; and Alycia...
2024-12-1509 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireRewiring America - Health Benefits from Electrifying Buildings
Rewiring America has released Breathe easy: Household electrification as a public health intervention to improve outdoor air quality, a new analysis that models the health benefits of electrifying homes in communities across the U.S. Electrifying the nation’s homes would notably improve outdoor air quality, leading to 3,400 fewer premature deaths, 1,300 fewer hospital admissions and ER visits, 220,000 fewer asthma attacks, and 670,000 fewer days of reduced activity or missed work for Americans each year. Wael Kanj of Rewiring America talks to Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-12-1509 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireNYLPI Applauds Hochul Restart of Congestion Pricing
In June, in the closing hours of the legislative session, Governor Hochul upheaved the political world by shockingly unilaterally announcing that she was pausing congestion pricing in downtown Manhattan, apparently in an effort to help Democrats with suburban voters. Now that the election is over and with her facing several lawsuits over her action, Hochul has announced that congestion pricing will now launch at the end of the year, though at $9 per trip rather than $15. Christopher Schuyler, Managing Attorney with the Disability Justice Program of New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, discusses the status and importance of...
2024-12-1409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireSay No to Sludge Incinerator in Rensselaer (Part 2)
On Saturday, November 9 elected officials, city residents and environmental leaders gathered on the banks of the Hudson River near the BASF toxic waste site in the City of Rensselaer to express strong opposition to a new incinerator project being proposed by a New Jersey company called Harbor Rock. In part two of Hudson Mohawk’s coverage, we hear from Rensselaer Mayor Mike Stammel; Bob Welton of Rensselaer Environmental Coalition; and Joe Ritchie of Lights Out Norlite. By Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine. Audio provided by Sonja Stark.
2024-12-1409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireSay No to Sludge Incinerator in Rensselaer (Part One)
On Saturday, November 9 elected officials, city residents and environmental leaders gathered on the banks of the Hudson River near the BASF toxic waste site in the City of Rensselaer to express strong opposition to a new incinerator project. A New Jersey company called Harbor Rock is eyeing the property to incinerate river sediment from the bottom of the Hudson River and possibly other rivers and New York Harbor. In part one of Hudson Mohawk’s coverage, we hear from Jessica Welshans, a local resident, and Judith Enck, former regional administrator for the federal EPA. By Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mo...
2024-12-1409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireDEC Rejects Permits for Saratoga BiocarNov. 13 - The state Department of Environmental Conservation has denied the various air and waste permits for the controversial biochar plant proposal in the Town of Moreau. The company wanted to process up to 15 percent of the biosolids generated in New York without first demonstrating that its process works at scale and is protective of human health and the environment. Tracy Frisch of the Clean Air Action Network of Glens Falls talks with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-12-1409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate Superfund Occupation to Take Place Dec. 10 to 12
New Yorkers will gather at the State Capitol on Dec. 10 to 12, with some participants pledging to engage in nonviolent civil disobedience, to underscore the urgency of the climate crisis. The three-day sit-in demands Governor Hochul sign the Climate Change Superfund Act, part of a growing national movement to hold Big Oil accountable. Sheldon Pollock of Third Act talks to Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine about the event.
2024-12-1409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireRenewable Heat Now Launch at NYS Capitol (Part 1)
The three day occupation at the Capitol which began on Dec. 10 to urge Governor Hochul to sign the Climate Superfund Act ended by joining a press conference outside the Assembly chambers on Dec. 12 in support of the Renewable Heat Now campaign, one of a dozen regional events across the state. The campaign includes support for the Renewable Capitol Act and the NY HEAT Act. The NY HEAT Act will cap consumer utility costs, end outdated mandates that expand fossil fuel infrastructure, and help New York meet the greenhouse gas reduction goals of the New York Climate Act. The Renewable...
2024-12-1409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate Groups Occupy Capital to Get Gov Hochul to Sign Superfund Act (Part 1)200 climate activists rallied at the Capitol on Tuesday December 10 to get Governor Hochul to sign the climate superfund Act. In part one, we hear from rally organizer Michael Richardson of Third Act and Blair Horner of NYPIRG. By Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-12-1409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireRenewable Heat Now Launch at State Capitol NY
The three day occupation at the Capitol which began on Dec. 10 to urge Governor Hochul to sign the Climate Superfund Act ended by joining a press conference outside the Assembly chambers on Dec. 12 in support of the Renewable Heat Now campaign, one of a dozen regional events across the state. The campaign includes support for the Renewable Capitol Act and the NY HEAT Act. The NY HEAT Act will cap consumer utility costs, end outdated mandates that expand fossil fuel infrastructure, and help New York meet the greenhouse gas reduction goals of the New York Climate Act. The Renewable...
2024-12-1409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate Can't Wait Gives Failing Report Card to NY Gov. Hochul
Climate Can’t Wait, a collaborative of dozens of climate groups, has given Governor Hochul a D minus on a climate report card, including implementation of the state's climate law (CLCPA) passed five years ago. The report graded the Governor on 13 policy implementation and legislative proposals. Ruth Foster talks to Mark Dunlea for the Hudson Mohawk Magazine
You can listen to an interview with Mark and Sue Hughes Smith with Evan Dawson on Connections on WXXI (NPR) Rochester. https://www.wxxinews.org/show/connections/2024-10-28/why-did-climate-groups-give-governor-hochul-a-d-on-her-climate-action-work
2024-10-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireNY Power Authority's Plan to Build Public Renewables is Too SmallPublic Power NY says that the draft plan by the New York Power Authority to build renewable energy falls short of the state's climate goals. Alex Patterson of Public Power NY discusses the plan with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine. (Press release
2024-10-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireUnited Nations Secretary-General at Siena College Climate Forum
On October 11 and 12, Siena College hosted a two- day symposium on sustainability, integral ecology and climate justice. We hear about climate justice from the keynote speaker, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. By Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine
2024-10-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireThe Case Against Single Use Plastics at Siena College ForumSiena College hosted a two- day symposium on climate justice on October 10-11. We hear from two of the panelists who responded to the opening remarks by the UN Secretary General. We hear the concluding remarks from Medha Palnati a Siena graduate and current medical student. We then hear from Rev. Kathryn Beilke of Beyond Plastics. By Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine
2024-10-3011 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireHow Demand Management Can Shut Down Dirty Fossil Fuel Peaker Plants
A new report shows how scaled-up demand management can accelerate the phasing out of New York City’s harmful fossil fuel power plants—which disproportionately impact the most vulnerable New Yorkers—while ensuring a reliable and resilient energy grid. The report shows how governments can avoid costly investments in fossil fuel infrastructure, reduce energy burdens for ratepayers, and meet the state’s ambitious climate goals. Megan Carr of the New York Lawyers for Public Interest's Environmental Justice Program talks with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-10-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireUpdate on Federal, NYS Climate Superfund Act
While New York State's Climate Superfund Act is still awaiting a decision by Governor Hochul as to whether or not to sign in, Cong. Nadler has introduced an even more robust version of the federal level. Blair Horner of NYPIRG discusses why large greenhouse gas emitters should pay to fix the damages they have caused rather than taxpayers. With more Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-09-2309 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireGlobal Climate Strike at Governor's Mansion in Albany on Sept. 20
Fridays for Future, the movement started by Greta Thunburg, has called for a Global Climate Strike on September 20, 2024. RPI Sunrise Movement and Fridays for Future Capital District NY are leading a rally in Albany at 2 PM on the 20th in front of the Governor's Mansion on Eagle Street Key demands include having the Governor sign the Climate Superfund Act and speeding up state action to ensure that the state meets if not exceeds its 2030 climate goals. Xanthe Plymale of XR and FFF talks with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-09-2309 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireCitizen Action Update of National Grid Rate Hike Hearings
Climate groups have intervened in National Grid's upstate rate hike request to prevent billions of dollars from being invested in expanding fossil fuel infrastructure and to keep utility bills affordable. There will be an in person public hearing by the PSC (Public Service Commission) for the case on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 6 PM at the Albany Public Library (Washington Ave), with a virtual hearing on Wed Sept. 25th. Bob Cohen of Citizen Actions discusses the rate case with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine
2024-09-2309 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireHas Gov. Hochul Been Hoodwinked on Nuclear Power?Journalism professor Karl Grossman recently wrote an article for Long Island newspapers titled Has Hochul Been 'Hoodwinked In The Hothouse'. Gov. Hochul recently began publicly promoting new nuclear power plants as part of her climate strategy. Grossman talks to Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine about the problems with seeing nuclear as a climate solution.
Link to article:
https://www.smithtownmatters.com/suffolk-county/2024/9/18/suffolk-closeup-has-hochul-been-hoodwinked-in-the-hothouse.html#entry36478772
2024-09-2309 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireAlbany Global Climate Strike Urges Hochul To Speed Up Climate Action
Fridays for Future, the movement started by teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg, held a global climate strike on Friday Sept. 20. In Albany, about 100 climate activists gathered at the Governor’s Mansion to demand stronger climate action from Governor Hochul, especially in light of recent reports that the state is failing to meet its 2030 goals for emission reductions and renewable energy. The groups urged the Governor to sign the Climate Superfund Act and other bills. The groups addressed how climate justice requires addressing other issues as well, such as war, food, and housing. We hear first from Xan Plymale of Fr...
2024-09-2309 minPutting Out the Planetary FireStates Agencies Ignoring NYS Climate Mandates
New York is not on track to meet its Climate Act energy mandates, and state agencies are failing in their most basic duties. NY Lawyers for the Public Interest and NY Renews released a report, "Flouting the Law: Major State Agencies Are Ignoring New York’s Climate Mandates" finding that four of the biggest agencies — Department of Transportation, Empire State Development, Education Department, and Department of Health — have failed to comply with the Climate Act, issuing neither policies nor guidance on implementation of the law. Caroline Chen and Sierra Townsend of NYLPI's Environmental Justice Program talks about the re...
2024-09-1009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate Groups Worry About Hochul's Push For Nuclear At Energy Summit
On Thursday September 5, Governor Hochul will convene an energy summit in Syracuse, supposedly to discuss strategies to accelerate renewable energy development. The state recently announced that it is likely to miss its 2030 goal to have 70% of its electricity come from renewable energy. Climate advocates worry that the Governor will continue to retreat from the climate goals. They are also concerned that two of the five panels will look at building new nuclear plants. Kathleen Nolan of Physicians for Social Responsibility - New York and Catskill Mountain Keeper talks with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-09-1009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireGovernor Hochul Promotes Nukes at Energy Summit
While Governor Hochul opened up her energy summit in Syracuse on September 5 with a strong statement in support of the need for climate action, much of the focus on the event was her promotion of new nuclear power. We start off by hearing from Tim Judson of the Nuclear Information and Resource Services about why nuclear is not a climate solution. We then went across the street where several groups that were supportive of nuclear were tabling, where we talked with Martha Viglietta of the Citizens Climate Lobby, best known for its promotion of carbon pricing. We then hear...
2024-09-1009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireGroups say No Nukes at Gov Hochul's Energy Summit
Governor Hochul on September 5 convened an energy summit in Syracuse to supposedly get the state back on track to meeting its climate goals. However, much of the summit focused on the idea on building new nuclear power plants, which sparked a letter of protest from more than 150 groups. At a press conference held outside the summit, we hear from Laura Shindell of Food and Water Watch; Joe Heath, representing the Onondaga Nation; Kathy Nolan of Physicians for Social Responsibility - NY; Cornell professor Robert Howarth; Ethan Gormley of Citizen Action; and Avni Pravin of AGREE (Alliance for...
2024-09-1009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate Groups Questions NYS Gov Hochul Delays
Governor Hochul recently announced that she expects NY to fail to meet its climate goals for 2030 and argues that the CLCPA needs to be revisited – namely, weakened – since the “science” has changed since the law was adopted 5 years ago. Climate activists argue that what has changed is that global warming and extreme weather is accelerating faster than anticipated. Laure Shindell reviews the Governor’s record on climate action with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-08-1609 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireSHARE Reacts to Governor's $100 Million to Start Decarbonizing NYS Plaza
On July 19, Governor Hochul announced that she was allocating $100 million to begin the process of decarbonizing the State Capitol complex by installing 4 electric chillers in the Plaza. While the chillers are something that SHARE (Sheridan Hollow Alliance for Renewable Energy) has been pushing for years, the group is concerned about the proposed 15 years plus timeline to eliminate emissions. Albany County Legislator Mert Simpson, chair of SHARE, talks to Mark Dunlea of the Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-07-2509 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate Clock Shows 5 Years Left to Prevent Climate ChaosOn Monday, July 22 2024, the Climate Clock (climateclock.world) ticked down below five years for the first time. Climate emergency actions took place in cities across the globe, demanding an end to fossil fuels, and pushing leaders to #ActInTime to accelerate real climate solutions. Andrew Boyd and Gan Golan, co-founders of Climate Clock, talk to Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-07-2509 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireNYS Comptroller Audits PSC, NYSERDA on Climate Progress
While the Public Service Commission (PSC) and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) have taken considerable steps in planning for NYS’s transition to renewable energy, they must take stronger action to meet the state’s clean energy goals, according to an audit by the NYS Comptroller. The audit found inadequate planning, monitoring and assessment of risks and challenges in the PSC’s efforts to help the state meet the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act’s (Climate Act) targets, which seek 70% renewably sourced electricity by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2040. Tina Kim, State Comptroller for State Go...
2024-07-2509 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate: LaVenia on Degrowth or Class Struggle
While some believe that we can combat climate change by replacing fossil fuels with clean, renewable energy, the degrowth movement aims to enhance human well-being and environmental sustainability by intentionally scaling down economic activities to align with the Earth's ecological boundaries and finite resources. Some socialists believe that the class struggle needs to take precedence over degrowth. Peter LaVenia discusses a recent paper he co-authored that provides a more eco-socialist perspective. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-07-2509 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireCarbon Capture if a False Climate SolutionOn Monday July 10, the EcoAction committee of the Green Party of the United States held a webinar as to why carbon capture is a false climate solution – one however that is receiving tens of billions of dollars in grants and subsidies from United States taxpayers. The idea is to remove carbon from pollution before it goes into the atmosphere – thus allowing fossil fuels to continue to be burnt. We hear from Carolyn Raffensperger, executive director of the Science and Environmental Health Network, and Jim Walsh of Food and Water Watch. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine. (Watch the full...
2024-07-1909 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireGroups Rally to Have NY Embrace Green AmendmentOn Friday July 12 at the State Capitol at noon, environmentalists and climate activists will rally to call upon state officials to more strongly embrace the recent Green amendment to the state constitution to give New York residents the right to clean air and water. Maya van Rossum, the leader of the national Green Amendment Movement, talks to Mark Dunlea of the Hudson Mohawk Magazine about the event.
2024-07-1909 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireRewiring America on Climate Impact of Updating NY Building CodesNew York State’s Fire Prevention and Building Code Council recently met to review proposed building code updates to implement climate-related provisions passed in last year’s state budget for all-electric new buildings. Changes would prohibit fossil fuel furnaces, hot water heaters and stoves in most new construction beginning in 2026. Michael Hernandez of Rewiring America discusses the issue with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-07-1009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireNYers For Clean Power: NY Fails to Meet Renewable Energy Goals
NYSERDA, the state's energy agency, recently admitted that the state is moving too slowly to reach its goal of having 70% of its electricity to come from renewable energy by 2030. This highlights the need for the state (NYPA) to start building renewable energy. Lisa Marshall of New Yorkers for Clean Power discusses the overall problems with the Hochul administration and the state legislature in implementing the state's climate plan, including its failure to pass the NY Heat Act. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-07-0909 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireDuring Heat Wave, Sheridan Hollow Resident Call on NYS to Shut Its Power Plant (Part 1)On a day where temperature topped 90 degrees in Albany, several residents and members of the Sheridan Hollow Alliance for Renewable Energy (SHARE) told gripping personal stories about how the climate crisis has impacted their neighborhood, including cancer, flooding and extreme heat. Several residents reported that numerous family members and neighbors had died from various forms of cancer. Residents called upon Governor Hochul to shut down the Sheridan Hollow Steam Plant (SASP), which heats and cools the Capitol and other nearby state buildings with fossil fuels, and to rapidly move towards powering state buildings in downtown Albany with renewables. We...
2024-07-0909 minPutting Out the Planetary FireWhy NYS Should Include Electricity in Cap-and-TradeLeaving the electric sector out of New York's proposed cap-trade-and-invest carbon pricing system, as New York officials have indicated they’re leaning toward , would increase harmful pollution from fossil fuel plants according to a new report by Resources for the Future and the New York City Environmental Justice Alliance. Study co-author Molly Robertson talks with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-06-1809 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate Groups Challenge Insurance Companies' Financing of Fossil FuelsInsurance companies invest enormous sums of money in fossil fuels while insurance coverage is often necessary for such projects to move forward. Meanwhile, as climate change accelerates, insurance companies are raising their rates and slashing coverage in communities most threatened by global warming. Jose Gonzalez of New Yorkers for Community Change discusses proposed legislation to address these problems with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-06-1709 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireReport Shows How to Convest NYS Capitol to 100% Renewable Energy, Zero EmissionsSHARE, the Sheridan Hollow Alliance for Renewable Energy, a coalition of Capital area residents and statewide advocates, released report by geothermal expert Jay Egg and SHARE’s science team demonstrating how the heating and cooling needs of the Capitol complex can be met without fossil fuels. We hear from Bob Cohen and Jay Egg. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-06-1409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireStudents Stage Die-in at Capitol to Promote Climate SuperfundFridays For Future NYC came to the State Capitol on Wednesday May 29 to call upon the State Assembly to pass the NY Climate Superfund and NY Heat Acts. After rallying in front of the Assembly chambers, the high schoolers staged a die-in. We start off by hearing from organizer Keanu Arpels-Josiah, followed by Michael Magazine, local Muslin leader Sohaib Chekima, Rashida Tyler of the NYS Council of Churches, Dominic Frongillo of Elected Officials for the Environment, and Noah. By Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-06-1413 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireNYS Legislature Passes Climate SuperfundAt 3:32 AM on Friday morning, in the waning hours of the 2024 NYS Legislative session, the NYS Assembly unexpectedly passed the NYS Climate Superfund Act to require the largest greenhouse gas polluters in the state to pay $3 billion a year to help deal with the damages from their pollution. The unexpected victory came after Governor Hochul shockingly threw the legislative session into chaos by suddenly announcing she was halting the long-awaited congestion pricing in NYC. Anne Rabe of NYPIRG, the principal organizer for the bill, discusses how the bill passed and what steps are needed to convince Governor Hochul to...
2024-06-1409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FirePackaging Reduction Fails to Pass Assembly
One of the casualties of the chaos created in the waning hours of the 2024 NYS legislative session when Governor Hochul suddenly announced her decision to pause congestion pricing in NYC was the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act. The Assembly claims it ran out of time to debate the bill after the Senate passed it, especially with Speaker Heastie booked on a flight to take a vacation trip. Alexis Goldsmith of Beyond Plastics discusses the fate of the bill as well as the Bigger Better Bottle Bill with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-06-1409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireDr. Steingraber on Climate Arrests Citibank Summer of HeatDr. Sandra Steingraber demonstrated and was arrested at Citibank’s headquarters in New York City in June 2024 as part of the Summer of Heat campaign to end financing for fossil fuels by financial institutions. She talks to Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine about the campaign and her arrests (she was arrested with both the scientists and the elders contingents), including her statement that "I did not become a biologist to write eulogies for the species I study." (Sandra's statement: sisterstem.org/2024/06/12/dr-san…e-species-i-study) (scientists' letter ucs-documents.s3.amazonaws.com/global-wa…-2024.pdf)
climatefossil fuelsDr. Steingraber On Climate...
2024-06-1409 minPutting Out the Planetary FireBanks Need to Stop Financing Fossil Fuels
On Friday, May 3, Third Act and Rivers and Mountains Green Faith is holding a march in downtown Albany (noon start, SUNY Plaza) to target banks that continue to provide tens of billions of dollars in financing to enable fossil fuel companies to expand their operations. John Seakwood talks about Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-05-0509 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireEnvironmentalists and Local Governors Push NYS to Reduce Packaging
With the state legislature returning to Albany through early June, a key issue is whether they will pass the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act. Localities and taxpayers are stuck footing the bill for managing the growing flood of packaging waste. From a May 2 news conference, we hear from Judith Enck of Beyond Plastics; Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger; and Jumaane Williams, the NYC Public Advocate. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-05-0509 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireMay 3 Abany March to Stop Funding Climate ChaosOn Friday, May 3, Third Act and Rivers and Mountains Green Faith, along with several dozen climate and faith groups, held a Stop Funding Climate Chaos march in downtown Albany to target banks that continue to provide tens of billions of dollars in financing to enable fossil fuel companies to expand their operations. The march included a bagpipe player and members of the Red Rebel Brigade. The march stopped at Chase Bank, Bank of America, and TD Bank to protest their financing of fossil fuels. We hear from Michael Richardson of Third Act and Green Faith; march leader John Seakwood...
2024-05-0509 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireNYS Comptroller DiNapoli Balks at Fossil Fuel Divestment
On Valentine’s Day, NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that he largely decided against divesting from the billions of dollars the state’s pension fund has in Exxon and other oil and gas companies. DiNapoli, contrary to the evidence, decided that most of the fossil fuel companies are committed to transitioning to a clean energy future. He defended his more than half a billion dollars invested in Exxon on the grounds that it was a passive investment through index funds. Ruth Foster of DivestNY talks with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine about why the climate coalition feels that DiNa...
2024-04-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate Groups Study of Hochul Cap and Invest ProposalA new analysis finds that regulations to reduce emissions from each power plant and install sector-specific pollution limits would provide more benefits to disadvantaged communities than the policy Gov. Kathy Hochul’s administration is considering. The analysis by Resources for the Future and the New York City Environmental Justice Alliance focuses on potential designs of a cap-and-trade style program being developed by Hochul’s administration. Molly Robertson of Resources for the Future talks with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-04-3009 minPutting Out the Planetary FireNYS Senate Pushes Climate in BudgetWhile both houses of the NYS Legislature have passed their one house budget resolutions, the State Senate is considerably stronger on climate issues than the State Assembly. Anne Rabe of NYPIRG discusses the Senate’s support for the NY Heat Act, Climate Superfund Act, 100% Renewable Capitol, and curtailing tax subsidies for fossil fuels. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-04-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary Fire500 Rally For NY Renews Climate, Jobs And Justice Package
On Wednesday March 20, more than 500 climate activists rallied in Albany in support for NY Renews Climate, Jobs & Justice Package that they want included in New York State’s 2024 budget, which is due by April 1. We hear from Theodore Moore, the Executive Director of ALIGN; Dawn Wells-Clyburn of PUSH Buffalo; Rami Dinnawi, the Environmental Justice Coordinator of El Puente; and Sebastian David Baez, Just Transition Coordinator of UPROSE. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-04-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireMicroplastics Have A Negative Health Impact
New research in the New England Journal of Medicine, showing that microplastics are linked to increased heart attacks and strokes. Doctors and environmentalists called upon state legislator leaders to pass the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act. We hear from Judith Enck of Beyond Plastics, pediatrician Dr. Phil Landrigan, and Dr. Sandra Selikson. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-04-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireLON Responds to Temporary Shutdown of Norlite
On March 25, the Norlite hazardous waste incinerator and aggregate production facility in Cohoes, announced that they are temporarily closing down the core part of their production, though details are vague as to what this means. Joe Ritchie of Lights Out Norlite, which has called for the plant to be permanently shut down, talks with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine. Since this interview, we found out that one of Norlite’s incinerators has been shut down for the last 3 months. The other one needs $3 million worth of repairs. 3 months ago, 18 staff were let go. More recently, 10 people were laid of...
2024-04-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireFood and Water Watch Pushes to Ban Carbon FrackingBack in 2015, New York State banned high-volume hydraulic fracturing for gas with water. Now a company known as Southern Tier Solutions has proposed to drill in the Southern Tier using compressed carbon dioxide to extract gas. Alex Beauchamp of Food and Water Watch discusses the campaign to get NYS to ban carbon fracking with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-04-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireStein and Jones on What Gaza is a Critical Climate Change Issue
Long-time progressive Capital District activists Eleanor Stein and Jeff Jones have an article posted on The Nation website titled “The Single Most Important Thing President Biden Can Do for the Climate Is Enforce an Immediate Cease-Fire in Gaza.” They make the point that US support for Israel’s war in Gaza is deepening the climate crisis—and making it impossible to solve. They talk with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine. www.thenation.com/article/activism/climate-gaza-ceasefire-earth-day/
2024-04-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireFridays For Future Pushes for Climate Action in NYS Budget
Keanu Arpels-Josiah is an organizer with Fridays For Future NYC. He was at the state Capitol on Tuesday April 9 pushing lawmakers to include the full NY Heat Act, Climate Superfund Act, and Stop Climate Polluters in the state budget. FFF is also organizing a climate strike on Friday April 19 – including at the State Capitol – to get President Biden to declare a climate emergency. Keanu talks with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-04-3009 minPutting Out the Planetary FireFridays For Future Albany Urges NYS Comptroller to Divest from Fossil Fuels, Israel
Friday April 19 was a global day of climate strikes called for by Fridays For Future. A rally was held at the State Capitol in Albany, with a call for NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli to divest both from fossil fuels and Israel. We hear from local Friday for Future organizers, followed by local peace and justice advocate Eleanor Stein and Matt Oill of Extinction Rebellion.
With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-04-3010 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireOpposing the Iroquois Pipeline in NY
April 29 is the deadline to submit comments to the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation about the expansion of the Iroquois pipeline. The company wants to drastically increase the amount of gas they push through their 37-year-old, 414-mile fossil gas pipeline running from the Canadian border to Long Island and NYC. They are seeking a permit from DEC to double the size of compressor stations that have long polluted disadvantaged, working-class communities in Dover and Athens, NY. Mary Finneran, Co-Chair of the Gas Action Team of Sierra Club, and Kim Fraczek of Sane Energy Project discuss the situation with Mark...
2024-04-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireOcean Conservancy Updates On UN Plastics Treaty Meeting In Ottawa
During Earth Week, negotiators from 175 countries are gathering in Ottawa to discuss progress in drafting a first-ever legally-binding global treaty to end plastic pollution. Key issues include goals for reducing the amount of plastics produced, and the role of recycling of plastics, including chemical recycling which many view as a form of incineration. Dr. Ahja Brandon, Associate Director of US Plastic Policy for the Ocean Conservancy, provides an update to Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-04-3009 minPutting Out the Planetary FireClimate 2023 OverviewThis is Hudson Mohawk Magazine End of the Year Holiday Special, a Review of Climate in 2023 from segments we have broadcast. For our climate special, we have parts of six segments from this year. After a summary of the state of the climate, Mark Dunlea and Sina Basila Hickey review the recent COP28 climate meeting. After Justin Wood of the NY Lawyers for the Public Interest discusses NY Renews 2024 Climate, Jobs, and Justice Package, we hear from Michael Klare about how environmental issues have often led to civilization collapse throughout human history and the present existential challenge. We the...
2024-02-241h 07
Putting Out the Planetary FireNYPIRG Update on Climate Superfund ActOn Dec. 28, Governor Hochul received two letters from 280 local elected officials in Elected Officials to Protect America (EOPA) and youth groups such as Fridays for the Future, urging her to include the Climate Change Superfund Act in her Executive Budget next month. NYPIRG also released an analysis showing that NYS taxpayers directly paid over $2 billion in climate costs from December 2022 to December 2023, or $272 per household. Anne Rabe of NYPIRG talks with Mark Dunlea of HMM about the proposal.
2024-02-2409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireNY Renews State of the State (Part 1)NY Renews held a virtual ‘Climate State of the State’ press conference on Monday, January 8 to discuss their climate justice priorities for 2024: the People's Climate Justice Budget and Climate Jobs and Justice Package. In part one of our two-part coverage, we here from Catherine Nadeau of Catskill Mountain Keeper; Assemblymembers Pat Fahy and Jeff Dinowitz; and State Senator Liz Kruger. By Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-02-2409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireNY Renews Climate State of the State (Part 2)
NY Renews held a virtual ‘Climate State of the State’ press conference on Monday, January 8 to discuss their climate justice priorities for 2024: the People's Climate Justice Budget and Climate Jobs and Justice Package. . In part two of our coverage, we hear from two youth climate activists from We Stay/Nos Quedamos from the South Bronx, Melanie Giller and John Sanchez, followed by some questions and answers with Senator Krueger and Assemblymember Fahy. (In her State of the State, Governor Hochul did state support for key parts of the NY Heat Act) By Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Maga...
2024-02-2409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireGov Hochul Includes Most of HEAT Act in Her BudgetThe major climate news in Governor Hochul's State of the State address this year was her support for most of the NY Heat Act, which is designed to get the state to stop promoting the expansion of fossil fuels like natural gas and to ensure that clean energy is affordable. Lisa Marshall of the Renewable Heat Now campaign and NYers for Clean Power discusses what still remains to be done. The coalition is sponsoring an advocacy day on Jan. 23. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-02-2409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireEarth Justice Provides Overview of Governor's Environmental Budget ProposalsLiz Moran of Earth Justice discusses Governor Hochul's proposed budget for environmental issues with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine. Keep topics include the NY Heat Act and funding for water infrastructure.
2024-02-2409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireGroups Wants a 50% Cut in Packaging in NYS (Part 1)On Thursday, January 18, state lawmakers and advocates held a news conference calling for adoption of the state Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act. The bill will reduce plastic packaging by 50% over 12 years. In Part one of our coverage, we hear from Vanessa Fajans-Turner, Executive Director of Environmental Advocates NY, who served as the moderator. We then hear from the lead sponsors of the bills, the chairs of the respective legislative committees on the environment, Assembly Member Deborah Glick and Senator Pete Harckham. We hear from NYC Council Member Sandy Nurse, who until recently was chair of the council’s co...
2024-02-2409 min
Putting Out the Planetary Fire200 Groups Urge NYS to Reduce Packaging (Part 2)On Thursday, January 18, state lawmakers and advocates held a news conference calling for the adoption of the state Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act. The bill will reduce plastic packaging by 50% over 12 years to dramatically reduce waste, improve recyclability of packaging, and slash greenhouse gas emissions associated with plastic (which are currently on track to outpace the emissions from coal by 2030). In part 2 of our coverage, we hear from Judith Enck of Beyond Plastics as well as the responses by her and Senator Harckham, one of the bill’s leader sponsors, to questions from reporters. By Mark Dunlea for Hu...
2024-02-2409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate Groups Stunned by Governor's Slow Plan to Decarbonize Capitol
Climate justice advocates were stunned today to hear that the Hochul administration planned to take 10 years to achieve only a 50% reduction in fossil fuels at the State Plaza complex.State lawmakers, climate groups, and local residents have been asking Hochul to support pending legislation (A5633 / S2689) that would set a 3-year timeline to completely convert the State Capitol complex to 100% renewable energy in 3 years. The groups had previously successfully got the state legislature to amend Cuomo's proposed budget to stop his plans to add two new fracked gas turbines to the century-old polluting plant located in an environmental...
2024-02-2410 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClean Water Advocates Oppose 50% Cut in NYS FundingClean Water Advocates gathered at the Capitol on Tuesday January 29 to call for $600 million in state funding for clean water infrastructure after the Governor proposed cutting it in half to $250 million. We hear from a number of speakers: Adrianne Esposito of the Citizens Campaign for the Environment, who moderated the event. Senator Pete Harckham, chair of the Senate Environmental Committee; Assemblymember Michaelle Solages, Chair of the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus; and Robert Hayes of Environmental Advocates. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-02-2409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireFunding for Climate Action Pushed at NYS Budget Hearings (Part 2)The state budget hearing on the Environment on Wednesday February 7 started at 9:30 AM and lasted to the midnight hour. Hudson Mohawk Magazine has compiled the testimony of a number of the state’s leading climate activists. While praising the Governor for including major parts of the NY Heat Act, there were calls for much faster action on climate as extreme weather continues to explode globally. Making Polluters Pay, converting the Capitol to 100% Renewable Energy, Public Power, and getting the State Comptroller to Divest from Exxon and other fossil fuel companies were citied. In the second part of a two-part pr...
2024-02-2409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireTop Lobbyists in NY Playing Both Sides of Climate CrisisNew York’s leading fossil fuel lobbyists are simultaneously lobbying on behalf of environmental groups, hospitals, universities, cultural institutions, and tech giants such as Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, according to a new report from F Minus and LittleSis. The report argues that such “double agent” lobbyists are part of a strategy by the fossil fuel industry to greenwash its image and dissuade state lawmakers from supporting climate proposals such as the NY HEAT Act and the Climate Change Superfund Act. James Browning of F Minus talks to Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2024-02-2410 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireNYS Comptroller DiNapoli Refuses to Divest From Billions in Exxon, Oil and GasOn Valentine's Day, NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that he largely decided against divesting from the billions of dollars the state's pension fund has in Exxon and other oil and gas companies. DiNapoli, contrary to the evidence, decided that most of the fossil fuel companies are committed to transitioning to a clean energy future. He defended his more than half a billion dollars invested in Exxon on the grounds that it was a passive investment through index funds. Ruth Foster of DivestNY talks with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine about why the climate coalition feels that DiNapoli has...
2024-02-2409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireFood and Water Watch Opposes Effort to Undercut NY Ban on Fracking
A newly formed Texan company is attempting to evade New York’s fracking ban with a scheme to drill thousands of wells, frack with carbon dioxide, and construct a dozen gas-burning power plants. The company, Southern Tier Solutions, wants to use carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels to extract even more fossil fuels. It’s a dangerous example of why carbon capture and sequestration – known as CCS – is a false solution to climate change. Eric Weltman of Food and Water Watch provides an update to Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2023-12-2209 minPutting Out the Planetary FireEPA Issues New Rules on Lead, Water Pipe Replacement
A proposal from the federal Environmental Protection Agency would impose the strictest limits on lead in drinking water since federal standards were first set 30 years ago. It has a goal of replacing nine million lead pipes within the next 10 years. Rob Hayes of Environmental Advocates explains the proposal, including its impact on Troy and other local communities. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk agazine.
2023-12-2209 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate End of the Year Review 2023
This is Hudson Mohawk Magazine's End of the Year Holiday Special, a Review of Climate in 2023 from segments we have broadcasted. For our climate special, we have parts of six segments from this year. After a summary of the state of the climate, Mark Dunlea and Sina Basila Hickey review the recent COP28 climate meeting. After Justin Wood of the NY Lawyers for the Public Interest discusses NY Renews 2024 Climate, Jobs, and Justice Package, we hear from Michael Klare about how environmental issues have often led to civilization collapse throughout human history and the present existential challenge. We then...
2023-12-221h 07
Putting Out the Planetary FireMark Dunlea Review of Final Text at COP 28A review of the recently concluded COP 28 climate meeting. Climate activist Mark Dunlea reviews progress on issues such as climate funding to help developing countries cope with climate change. Fossil fuel companies emerged as the big winners, as they were able to weaken the call to phase out fossil fuels to one to transition away from them without firm goals. Meanwhile, the UN chief says the lack of climate action by world leaders has resulted in the opening of The Gates of Hell.
2023-12-1409 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireOverview of Upcoming COP 28The COP28 climate summit will run from November 30 to December 9 in the United Arab Emirates. Key issues to be debated include whether to set a firm deadline to phase out the use of fossil fuels and how industrial polluting nations will provide climate financing to the Global South. David Schwartzman is professor emeritus at Howard University and a biogeochemist who is active with the Global Greens climate working group. He talks with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2023-11-2709 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireNY Attorney General Sues PepsiCo Over Plastic PollutionPepsiCo., the global soft drink company, is being sued by the NYS Attorney General Tish James over the issue of single-use plastics pollution. The lawsuit alleges that the soft drinks giant “substantially causes public harm in Buffalo, has failed to warn consumers about the potential health and environmental risks of its single-use plastic packaging, and misleads consumers and the public about its efforts to combat plastics pollution”. From the press conference announcing the lawsuit, we hear first from Attorney General James followed by Jill Jedlicka of Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper. By Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2023-11-2009 minPutting Out the Planetary FireNY Renews Launches Climate, Jobs And Justice PackageNY Renews, a broad climate justice coalition, formally launched their Climate, Jobs, and Justice Package on Wednesday, November 15. Justin Wood of the NY Lawyers for the Public Interest discusses some of the key climate proposals and budget requests. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2023-11-1709 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireEarthjustice Urges NY Governor to Sign Community Gardens, Birds and Bees, Stream Protection Laws
The Community Gardens Protection Act, the Birds and Bees Protection Act, and the Class C-Streams Protection Act bring together a cross-cutting force of much-needed protections for pollinators, green spaces, and recreational waterways and streams. Ashley Ingram of Earthjustice discusses why it is important that Governor Hochul sign these three bills into law. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2023-11-1709 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireDr. Steingraber on Health Dangers in Homes from Fracked GasThe Compendium of Risks and Harms of Fracking and Associated Gas and Oil Infrastructure (the Compendium) was recently released, documenting continuing and increasing impacts on health and environment. The report shows fundamental problems with the entire life cycle of fracking and its infrastructure, which includes pipelines, LNG terminals, frack sand mining operations, and gas stoves inside homes. The groups are urging New York lawmakers to take action, starting with passage of the NY Heat Act. Dr. Sandra Steingraber of the Science and Environmental Health Network talks with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
frackingnatural gasBy MediaSanctuary is li...
2023-10-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireGroups Urge NY Governor to Include Climate Superfund in State Budget
Over 200 groups sent a letter urging Governor Hochul to include the Climate Change Superfund Act in her upcoming state Budget. The bill, which passed the Senate last session, would raise $3 billion annually from fees on Big Oil companies to pay for the damages caused by them emitting more than one billion tons of greenhouse gases in the state. At the state capitol in Albany, we hear from Pete Looker, who played one of the three dinosaurs standing up for the fossil fuel companies. We also hear from Sr. Katheen Pritty of Sisters of Mercy; Fred Kowal, head of United...
2023-10-0709 min
Putting Out the Planetary Fire120 Groups Urge Gov Hochul to Support 100% Renewable Capitol
One hundred twenty organizations statewide, including roughly 25 Albany groups and elected officials, wrote Governor Hochul today to urge her to include legislation in her upcoming state budget championed by the Sheridan Hollow Alliance for Renewable Energy (SHARE) to make the Capitol and other state buildings in downtown Albany run on renewable energy. The groups said this action would be consistent with the state’s climate goals and alleviate long term harms to the nearby environmental justice communities. Mert Simpson, co-chair of SHARE and county legislative for Sheridan Hollow, talks to Mark Dunlea .
2023-10-0709 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireAssemblymember Shrestha Promotes Energy DemocracyAssemblymember Sarahana Shrestha is a DSA-backed candidate recently elected to represent the 103rd Assembly District in the Dutchess-Ulster County area. In response to a proposed rate hike by the Central Hudson Utility, she is organizing a series of town hall meetings on energy democracy covering the broader topic of Energy Democracy and our statewide challenges with private utilities, energy affordability, and meeting our climate goals. She talks with Mark Dunlea. RSVPs for the Town Halls RSVPs can be submitted by visiting bit.ly/ad103energy
2023-09-2709 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireVoices from the Sept. 17 End Fossil Fuels Climate March
Organizers estimated that 75,000 people participated in the End Fossil Fuels march in NYC on September 17 leading up to the United Nations Climate Summit. Protestors expressed displeasure about how slow world leaders, starting with President Biden, are moving to try to prevent climate collapse. We hear from Santosh Nandabalan of Food and Water Watch; Barry Pendegrass of the Religious Action Center for Reform Judaism; Eileen Ryan of Beyond Plastics Greater Boston; Nick Smith of Greenpeace; Corhonda Corly of Step Up Louisiana; John Amidon of Veterans for Peace; and Lyna Hinkel of 350NYC. By Mark Dunlea
2023-09-2709 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate Activists Shut Down Citibank HQ over Fossil Fuel FinancingTwo dozen climate protestors were arrested on Thursday morning after hundreds of activists shut down the headquarters of Citibank, which has provided $333 billion in funding to fossil fuel projects since the Paris climate agreement took effect. We start off with several minutes of the sounds from the protests, followed by comments by protestors Ted Glick, Laura Wolfson, Eco of the Green Worker Alliance, and an activist who traveled to Phoenix for the protest. Climate activists are organizing a wave of protests around the September 17 climate march and rally in NYC around the upcoming climate summit at the United Nations...
2023-09-1609 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireActivists shut down MOMA to demand fossil fuel baron kicked off board
Nearly a hundred climate activists rallied at the Museum Of Modern Art in NYC on September 15 to call for the removal of board chair Marie-Josée Kravis because of her and her husband’s Henry Kravis’s ties to the fossil fuel industry. The protest comes before the major September 17 march to End Fossil Fuels in NYC prior to the UN climate summit. Henry Kravis, whose net worth is around $7.8bn, is a co-chief executive of KKR, one of the world’s five largest private equity firms. It is heavily invested in fossil fuels in the US, Canada, the UK, Eur...
2023-09-1609 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireXR Climate Protest at US Tennis OpenOn Thursday September 7 during the women's semifinal at the US Open with Coco Gauff, 3 climate protestors with Extinction Rebellion stood up to say End Fossil Fuels, halting the match for nearly an hour. Shayok Mukhopadhyay of Extinction Rebellion NYC Discusses why his glued his feet to the ground for the protest and about the importance of the protests in NYC leading up to the Sept. 17 rally to End Fossil Fuels. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2023-09-1109 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireCapital District of NY Mobilizes for End Fossil Fuels March NYC Sept. 17
Tens of thousands are expected in NYC on Sept. 17 for a rally and march to End Fossil Fuels being held in conjunction with the United Nations' special meeting on climate. Probably the largest climate rally in the US since COVID. A key focus is to urge President Biden to take stronger action to halt fossil fuels. Bob Cohen of Citizen Action is helping to organize buses from the Capital District for the event. He talks with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2023-08-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireMichael Klare on Climate Change and Civilization CollapseMichael Klare is Professor Emeritus of Peace and World Security Studies at Hampshire College. He recently wrote an article on Collapse 2.0What a 2005 Bestseller Tells Us About Climate Change and Human Survival. He talks with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine about the existential challenges posed by climate change. tomdispatch.com/collapse-2-0/
2023-08-2809 minPutting Out the Planetary FireGreen Radio Putting Out the Planetary FireJon Bowermaster interviewed Mark Dunlea on Green Radio Hour on Radio Kingston about his climate handbook Putting Out the Planetary Fire. How this summer's extreme weather highlights the need for system change not climate change, which means ending the dominant role of capitalism and Saying No to Fossil Fuels.
2023-08-2134 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate and Agriculture
On Monday, August 14, the EcoAction Committee of the Green Party held a webinar on climate and agriculture. This segment focuses on the remarks of Liz Henderson of NOFA (Northeast Organic Farm Association), who discusses the need to build healthy soils and reforms needed in the pending Farm Bill. Agriculture is often overlooked as a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. Globally agriculture accounts for almost a third of emissions. Our food system is also under threat from climate change and extreme weather, at both the level of production and distribution. The lack of access to healthy, affordable food for...
2023-08-2009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireNYS Comptroller Report on Progress in Meeting Renewable Energy Goals
A new report from the State Comptroller’s office found that generators of renewable power including solar and wind, would need to triple production to reach the law’s 2030 goal of 70 percent green electricity consumption. This underscores the need for the NY Power Authority to start building more wind and solar farms. The comptroller’s report notes that prior efforts to increase renewable energy have been hindered by inconsistent funding, canceled projects and delays. The Comptroller noted that utility customers may end up with higher bills since the state funds most renewables through a surcharge on bills rather...
2023-08-0309 minPutting Out the Planetary FireGreen State Radio Interviews Mark Dunlea on Putting Out the Planetary FirePatti and Doug Wood Green State Radio Interviewed Mark Dunlea on his new book, Putting Out the Planetary Fire, an organizing guide for climate educators, students, and activists. This week Green Street radio segment includes part of the interview, mainly on the larger national and international view. The full interview starts with an overview of the recent failure of the NYS legislature to once again take action on several critical climate bills for adjourning for the rest of the year. Many activists will now focus on the Hochul administration's implementation of a state cap-and-trade program. Hochul set off a...
2023-07-0337 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireAlbany Joins Worldwide Banner Drop on July 3 to Free Julian AssangeOn Julian Assange’s birthday, July 3rd, banner drops are being organized worldwide to demand his release after 11 years of confinement. The US wants to prosecute him for his role at WikiLeaks in working with Chelsea Manning to release videos showing American soldiers killing civilians in Iraq. Pippa Bartolotti of Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and the United National Anti-War coalition talks with Mark Dunlea about the banner drop on the Hudson River Way pedestrian bridge over 787 in Albany at 4 PM on the 3rd.
2023-06-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireBeyond Plastics on Failure of NYS Lawmakers to Act on PackagingThe NYS legislature left for the year without either house taking a vote on either the Packaging Reduction & Recycling Act or the expanded bottle bill. Alexis Goldsmith, National Organizing Director of Beyond Plastics, discusses why lawmakers are not standing up to the chemical and fossil fuel industries and the makes of packaging (Coke, Amazon). With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2023-06-3009 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate Groups Made Last Minute Push at NYS CapitolNY Renews, Citizen Action, PAUSE, and others held a press conference at the State Capitol on Thursday, May 25 to call for lawmakers to pass key Climate, Jobs, and Justice bills, including the 100% Renewable Capitol Bill, #NYHEAT and the Climate Superfund Act. Similar events were held throughout the state. We hear from NYPIRG Executive Director Blair Horner, State Assemblymember Phil Steck, Albany County Legislator William Reinhart, and Mark Dunlea, coordinator of PAUSE – People of Albany United for Safe Energy. We also hear from Alycia Bacon of Mothers Out Front, who was the emcee for the event. Produced by Mark Dunlea fo...
2023-06-2709 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireFood and Water Watch Hudson River radioactive waste dumping, Sept. 17 UN climate march
One of the few controversial bills that the State Assembly passed during their two day special session was banning the dumping of radioactive waste water from the decommissioning of the Indian Point nuclear power plant into the Hudson River. Eric Weltman of the Hudson River discusses whether the Governor will sign the law, and gives an overview of the End Fossil Fuels rally and march being organized in NYC on Sept. 17 in conjunction with the UN Special Meeting on climate. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.
2023-06-2709 min
Putting Out the Planetary FireClimate Groups Push NY Lawmakers On Renewable Capitol, HEAT Act, Climate Superfund
NY Renews, Citizen Action, PAUSE, and others held a press conference at the State Capitol on Thursday, May 25 to call for lawmakers to pass key Climate, Jobs, and Justice bills, including the 100% Renewable Capitol Bill, #NYHEAT and the Climate Superfund Act. Similar events were held throughout the state. We hear from NYPIRG Executive Director Blair Horner, State Assemblymember Phil Steck, Albany County Legislator William Reinhart, and Mark Dunlea, coordinator of PAUSE – People of Albany United for Safe Energy. We also hear from Alycia Bacon of Mothers Out Front, who was the emcee for the event. Produced by Mark Dunlea fo...
2023-06-2609 min