NYS Says "We follow the Science," Experts Ask: "What About Cryptomining?"

ALBANY, NY (04/12/2022) (readMedia)-- On Wednesday, scientists will urge Governor Hochul to "follow the science" and put a moratorium on proof-of-work cryptomining. In its recent report, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) warned of global warming at dangerous levels if we don't drastically reduce our dependence on fossil fuels much faster than we are. Meanwhile, New York State is accommodating 20% of the country's rapidly-growing, fossil fuel-burning cryptomining industry, all to the detriment of small businesses, local economies, the environment, and the climate. The science is clear, yet Governor Hochul is allowing cryptomining to wreak havoc on New York unchecked and unregulated. Cryptomining threatens to make it impossible for New York State to meet the critical zero-emissions climate goals outlined in the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.

The group will also call on Governor Hochul and the DEC to deny the air permit for Greenidge Generation, a 24/7 bitcoin mine in the Finger Lakes currently operating under grandfathered-in air permits. After a previous two-month delay and more than a year of advocacy, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) again pushed back its deadline to make a decision about Greenidge Generation's Title V Air Permit Renewal. The new deadline is three months away and two days after the gubernatorial primary.