New York state has taken a bold step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions by becoming the first US state to ban the installation of new natural gas infrastructure in most new buildings. Environmentalists have praised the move, arguing that gas stoves emit nitrogen oxide pollution. However, the same has been criticized by Republicans as an excessively interventionist and costly action. The new law requires buildings of up to seven stories to replace gas for space heating and cooking with electricity by 2026, with taller buildings required to comply by 2029, with exceptions for large commercial and industrial buildings. Buildings are responsible for 32% of New York’s planet-warming emissions. Methane, the main component of natural gas, has over 80 times the warming power of carbon dioxide in its first 20 years in the atmosphere.
The long-term emissions goals for New York include a 40% reduction by 2030 and an 85% reduction by 2050, compared to 1990 levels. As part of efforts to achieve these goals, New York State has also passed legislation within its budget to ban the use of natural gas for heating and cooking in some new buildings from as early as 2025. The legislation requires new buildings to be constructed with electric hookups for appliances and utilities only from 2025. Some industries opposed the provisions, while the exceptions include hospitals, critical infrastructure, and commercial food outlets.
Despite the criticisms and legal challenges, the advocates of this ban have praised this move as a way to end the country’s “devastating addiction to fossil fuels”, while reducing health risks related to burning gas. New York follows the lead of countries such as the Netherlands, which requires all residential buildings to cease using gas by 2050.
Governor Kathy Hochul is expected to ratify the proposal imminently. According to recent research, buildings account for almost a third of New York’s greenhouse gas emissions, and gas stoves alone account for 19% of childhood asthma cases. The building regulations will not apply to existing buildings, and some commercial and industrial facilities will be exempt. New York will become the first US state to pass such a legislative requirement, but California and Washington State have included gas-limiting measures in building codes, while over 100 other municipalities have included them in local laws.
In conclusion, New York’s ban on the use of natural gas in new buildings aims to drive the use of greener, more climate-friendly alternatives, such as electricity and induction stoves. By implementing this legislation, New York State has taken a major step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions, prioritizing the health and safety of its citizens, and leading the way for other states to follow.
