Empire Clean Cities (ECC) works to reduce transportation emissions and petroleum use, with the stated aim of ensuring clean air for future generations. It is a New York-based nonprofit and a U.S. Department of Energy-designated coalition serving New York City and the Lower Hudson Valley. Its work includes technical assistance, funding guidance, education and pilot projects for fleets, municipalities, businesses and communities. 21
The organisation’s roots date to 2007, when it operated as New York City and Lower Hudson Valley Clean Communities, Inc.; it adopted the Empire Clean Cities name in 2009. 2 Joy Gardner is its executive director and coalition director. 7 The coalition connects national clean-transportation priorities with local needs, and its activities span alternative fuels, vehicle technologies, infrastructure and workforce development. 16
Several projects focus on the Bronx. A hydrogen-bus initiative plans to put two fuel-cell buses on eight MTA routes, supported by a hydrogen station at the Gun Hill Road Depot; the project page says the hydrogen will be produced using sustainable hydropower. 8 In Hunts Point, Bronx Is Breathing is working to reduce freight emissions through electric-truck adoption and charging infrastructure, while linking the transition to local jobs and community engagement. 5 ECC also leads Mission Electric, an electric-vehicle information and outreach campaign. 11