WHAT WE DO

Our policy program is dedicated to advancing energy and climate justice by promoting equitable transitions to clean and green infrastructure. We advocate for inclusive policies that prioritize frontline communities and environmental well-being. Key Initiatives: Implementation of the New York Climate Leadership and Protection Act (CLCPA), which sets ambitious climate goals for the state. Raya Salter, our Founder and Executive Director, is an appointed member of the New York State Climate Action Council where she advocates for the just and effective implementation of the CLCPA. This council plays a pivotal role in shaping the state's climate policies and ensuring they align with the goals of our Climate Act. Development of a clean and equitable transmission grid in New York state. EJLPC serves as a member of the NYS Energy Policy Planning Advisory Council, working to ensure the development of a transmission grid that complies with the climate goals outlined in the CLCPA. Check out our recent report on EnergyJustice in Transmission Planning! Equitable Infrastructure and the Solidarity Economy. Raya Salter sits on the Coalition for Green Capitol Advisory Board as it develops its plans to deploy $5B in national green bank capitalization. She is helping to develop frontline instruments and impact strategies. EJLPC is a member of the M4BL Black Hive (M4BL National Policy Table Member) and the New Economy Coalition, and works to develop instruments to deepen the democratic development of infrastructure

The Eco-Ambassador Marine Science Education program is a partnership between EJLPC and the City of New Rochelle Parks Department and Youth Bureau. It is an "earn and learn" program led by two veteran New Rochelle High School Teachers. Youth receive an immersive summer marine exploration and STEM learning experience by the water on the Long Island Sound, and community events happen all year round. Key Initiatives: - Establishing a New Rochelle Urban Resilience Center at Five Islands Park, now the home of our New Rochelle Youth Eco-Ambassador Program. - Community Air Monitoring: We actively participate as a nonprofit partner with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Community Air Monitoring Program, collecting and disseminating air quality data. Eco-Ambassadors in Action at the Oakwood Pavilion at Five Islands Park!

The Energy Justice Law and Policy Center convenes the Energy Justice Alliance (EJA). EJA is a BIPOC-led grassroots coalition organizing for a just transition in southern Westchester, the Hudson Valley and New York State. EJA's mission is to unite communities around environmental, racial, and economic justice. We create spaces in policy for frontline voices, including youth voices, ensuring that marginalized communities are at the forefront of the just transition movement. Key Focus Areas: - Creating space and developing resources for local BIPOC leaders. - Working to develop community-based and led energy policy to ensure a seat at the table for frontline communities in a just clean energy economy, including family sustaining and union jobs for BIPOC communities.

The "Air of Truth: Unmasking Environmental Injustice" is a comprehensive project increasing awareness about air quality and environmental justice throughout Westchester County. By leveraging NY State's hyper-local air quality data, powered by Aclima, we shed light on air quality issues, amplify community voices, and build collaborative efforts for actionable solutions and policies. Check out the Air of Truth web site for more info, or take a look at our gallery below.

EJLPC works with Facing Future TV to produce live programs from UN COP meetings, including COP 28 in Dubai (Nov. 30-Dec. 10). We also participate in negotiations with allied coalitions. Check out this year's schedule here! We also produced programs from COP 26 in Glasgow, COP 27 in Egypt, COP 28 in Dubai and COP 29 in Baku.