Businesses and Environmentalists Unite Against New York’s Empire Wind One Offshore Project
In a rare collaboration, businesses and environmentalists have come together to oppose New York’s Empire Wind One offshore project. They argue that the project will have a devastating impact on the commercial fishing industry and marine life in the local waters.
“A decade ago, we warned that this would affect fishermen, fisheries, and now the state is turning a blind eye,” said Bonnie Brady, the executive director of the Long Island Commercial Fishing Association.
The planned energy initiative, which began construction last April off the coasts of New York and New Jersey, is facing a legal battle from stakeholders in the tri-state area.
The Bronx’s Fulton Fish Market Cooperative, Nassau County’s Point Lookout Fishing Club, and the Long Island Commercial Fishing Association are among the groups joining the legal action brought by environmentalists.
Fulton’s CEO expressed concern that the project would harm American port communities, economies, and jobs, as well as impact the restaurant and tourism industry in New York.
Ocean City, Maryland, has also expressed opposition to another offshore wind project near its coast. Locally on Long Island, boats must navigate around the windmill poles to reach fishing canyons, affecting the fishing industry in the area.
Environmental groups are concerned about the impact of the project on local whales, including the endangered North Atlantic right whale. The construction noise and vibrations from Empire Wind are also affecting marine life.
Billionaire John Catsimatidis and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin have raised concerns about the project’s impact on the fishing industry, whales, and electricity prices for homes. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has also noted increased whale sightings near offshore wind sites.
Kevin Halpin of the Point Lookout Fishing Club fears irreversible damage to marine life and the local ecosystem due to the project. Despite these concerns, Equinor, the company behind Empire Wind, has not commented on the issue.
