Though AGC claimed the project would reduce emissions, local elected officials and environmental groups immediately began fighting back. The PEAK Coalition, including the Sunset Park-based UPROSE, advocated for state officials to deny permits for the project and encouraged the company to pursue renewable and clean energy as an alternative.
“In Sunset Park, high levels of local air pollution has caused generations of health problems from asthma, heart disease, diabetes, COVID, and other upper respiratory issues,” said UPROSE, in a release. “For the community, this major victory means cleaner air, less exposure to toxic pollutants that harm our health, and more opportunities to create well-paying local green jobs in clean energy!”