CHOKE (Coalition Helping to Organize a Cleaner Environment) is a grassroots coalition of residential and civic associations representing over 350,000 residents in the New York City area. The formation of our organization in April 2000, was precipitated by the onslaught of several new power plants that were proposed to be built in and around Queens, significantly elevating the risks of greater air pollution burdens on what is already one of the most heavily polluted areas in the country. In addition to heavy vehicle traffic endemic to most dense urban areas, Queens had three very large and antiquated electric power plants, two of the largest airports in the country, and several congested highways crisscrossing the borough. All members and officers are volunteers, who are dedicated to our cause.
In the wake of the deregulation of the electric power market, the communities we represent were facing the addition of ten new power plants or major plant extensions, four of which were to be built in western Queens. These new power plants promised to be much cleaner than the older variety that are in operation in the area, but there were no plans in place to ensure that they would not increase the high pollution levels we are currently forced to inhale. In fact, it was likely to be the case since the new plants were unlikely to replace existing, dirtier plants, which enjoyed significant economic advantages over the new technically advanced models. Ironically, if these "clean" power plants were allowed to be built independent of commitments to reduce overall pollution levels, Queens would have become even more of a dumping ground for New York's electric power pollution.
Even so, we were not necessarily opposed to the proposed plants. We realize that the new natural gas-fired power generators, which are highly energy and water efficient, have the potential to reduce air pollution substantially and meet growing energy needs. A well-informed and vocal public is essential to realize the positive potential of meeting the city's power needs with this new technology. We agree with NRDC that no new power plants should be allowed unless their operation is coupled with the elimination of dirty generation capacity and other investments to reduce local air pollution.
Our efforts, in partnership with our politicians, community groups, Natural Resource Defence Council and NYPIRG, led to Governor Pataki to sign legislation and insure that the Poletti Plant was closed.
In addition, we support education regarding power plant pollution and clean energy.