Statement from Ramsay Adams, Executive Director, Catskill Mountainkeeper.

Today President Trump announced his decision to withdraw the US from the Paris climate agreement. This is a reckless international disgrace. Change begins at home, which is why Governor Cuomo's executive order is so critically important.  Making it state policy to reduce emissions to 80% below 1990 levels by 2050, and directing all state agencies to develop implementation plans in the next nine months is the perfect place to start. New York's economy is huge - our GDP was $1.405 trillion in 2014 making it one of the largest in the world. Climate policy here will help drive policy nationally.

Even as we laud today's bold moves, there is always more to be done. We urge the Governor and the Legislature to pass legislation to compliment this order and ensure home rule supersedes any weakened national environmental policies under this administration.