Award Deadline Extension; 2020 Census; DEC's 50th Anniversary

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
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Awards Deadline Extension; 2020 Census; DEC's 50th Anniversary 

In This Issue:

  • Environmental Excellence Award Deadline Extension
  • 2020 Census
  • DEC and Earth Day Golden Anniversaries

Environmental Excellence Award Deadline Extended to May 15

Environmental Excellence Award

DEC is extending the application due date for the 17th Annual Environmental Excellence Awards until Friday, May 15th, 2020.

This award program recognizes projects that demonstrate significant and measurable environmental, economic and social benefits. Businesses, not-for-profits, schools, and state and local agencies are eligible to apply.

These projects should be up and running for at least one year and can include programs that impact greenhouse gas emissions, food waste reduction, energy efficiency programs, education and training programs, manufacturing process improvements, water conservation, urban forestry, and agricultural practices to name a few. Nominate your organization's program or a program you are aware of that advances sustainable environmental practices.

You must submit your application by Friday, May 15, 2020.


2020 Census - New York Counts on You

April 1, 2020 marked Census Day for the next decennial census; the nation's once-per-decade, constitutionally-mandated count of every American, regardless of their citizenship status. The decennial census is one of the nation's most important programs. New Yorkers' fair share of federal funds for programs essential to the environment, health care, education, housing, economic development and transportation, all depends on an accurate and fully-counted census response.

DEC encourages every household to participate in the 2020 Census. Visit New York's 2020 Census website today to learn about ways to respond. Our environment counts and so should you!


DEC and Earth Day Mark Golden Anniversaries

DEC is celebrating its 50th birthday this year! The legislation establishing DEC was signed by Governor Nelson Rockefeller as part of the celebration of the first Earth Day, April 22, 1970, and the new agency began operations on July 1.

DEC has played—and continues to play—a primary role on issues that affect both our daily lives and our future:

  • Reducing pollution of our air, land, and water. It’s clear to see that our
    waterways are cleaner today, yet the agency remains vigilant in its efforts to
    ensure high quality water is available to all New Yorkers.
  • DEC and its partner agencies have made great strides regarding the
    disposal and cleanup of solid and hazardous waste sites. Since its inception,
    DEC has overseen the cleanup of nearly 1,800 contaminated waste sites
    throughout the state, and has closed hundreds of local, unlined landfills.
  • The agency plays a lead role in New York’s commitment to reduce harmful
    air emissions, including those that produce acid rain, and is a leader in
    efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from industrial plants and motor
    vehicles.

Read more (PDF) about DEC's progress over the past 50 years.

DEC 50 anniversary logo