Coverage of environmental issues in New York City focuses on climate policy, pollution, urban ecosystems and the city's exposure to a changing climate. This page reports on how environmental science and public decisions play out across the five boroughs.
Valeen Bhat, who runs an art studio in Clinton Hill, cleans leaves and debris from Brooklyn storm drains whenever it rains.
Live Poll
Would you clear leaves from storm drains near your home this fall?
November 6, 2026
Sherwood Design Engineers Submits Croton Plant ProjectThe award submission covers a water treatment plant built beneath Van Cortlandt Park that includes a green-roof golf course.
October 28, 2026
City Island Installs New Oyster Reef in Eastchester BayThe City Island Oyster Reef project placed six concrete structures to restore native populations.
October 26, 2026
New York City Teacher Wins Climate Education AwardSean McFadden receives the 2026 Julian Robertson Award for his work at Eagle Academy for Young Men II.
October 23, 2026
New York City Hosts Climate Law WorkshopThe event informed co-op residents about compliance requirements for Local Law 97.
October 13, 2026
Climate Forward Summit Featured Antarctic ExhibitThe New York Times hosted an immersive exhibit at its annual summit on Sept. 23 featuring artifacts from the Thwaites Glacier.
October 5, 2026
NYC Buildings Met Local Law 97 Reporting GoalsThe city reported that 95% of covered properties complied with initial greenhouse gas emissions standards.
September 27, 2026
Researchers Found Higher Methane Emissions in New York CityA study revealed that incomplete combustion in buildings accounts for significant methane losses.
September 26, 2026
Exterminator Removed Hornet Nest in Middle VillageA private exterminator removed a large bald-faced hornet nest from a city tree after the NYC Parks Department declined.
September 25, 2026
The Independent Launched Third Annual Climate 100 ListExperts and global leaders gathered in New York City to honor one hundred individuals tackling the climate crisis.
September 23, 2026
New York City Planted Record Trees in 2026The city reached a decade-high in tree planting efforts to combat extreme heat in vulnerable neighborhoods.
Reporting here centers on air and water quality, waterfront resilience, urban wildlife and the habitats that persist within a dense city. Coverage reaches every borough and the waterways that connect them. Flood risk along the coastline and the shoreline itself get as much attention as emissions targets do. Aging infrastructure and the cost of retrofitting it are the constraints behind many of the city's environmental stories.
