New York State officials are on the world stage. DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton and NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen Harris traveled to Turkey to join the 2026 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP‑31), representing the Empire State as a sub‑national participant.

Why New York is at the conference

For the second year in a row the federal government chose not to send an official U.S. delegation, leaving space for states to step forward. New York, along with several other states, seized the opportunity to showcase its climate‑action agenda and to learn from peers worldwide.

Key messages from the delegation

“New York is a sub‑national, as it were, in the Conference of the Parties,” Harris told CBS6’s Tom Eschen. “We spend a lot of time with like‑minded countries and states, sharing our learnings and listening to theirs.” She added that the Governor’s office has facilitated dozens of meetings and speaking engagements aimed at advancing clean‑energy collaboration.

Signature projects on display

The delegation highlighted several flagship initiatives:

• Champlain Hudson Power Express – a high‑voltage transmission line that will bring clean electricity from Canada to New York City.
• 25‑million‑tree initiative – a statewide reforestation effort designed to sequester carbon and improve air quality.
• Electrification transition – programs encouraging the shift from fossil‑fuel‑based heating and transportation to electric alternatives.

These projects illustrate New York’s commitment to reducing emissions, strengthening grid resilience, and fostering sustainable economic growth.

Learning from Turkey’s fire‑prevention work

Lefton visited the Turkish International Fire Training Center, noting the impressive investments in fire‑prevention technology. She drew parallels to recent fire activity in New York’s Capital Region, where a 500‑acre blaze burned late in the season.

“We’re seeing similar challenges in California and New York,” Lefton said. “By sharing tools and strategies on an international scale, we can better protect our communities from wildfires and protect critical infrastructure.”

Implications for New Yorkers

Participation in COP‑31 reinforces New York’s leadership in climate policy and signals to local businesses, municipalities, and families that the state is actively pursuing clean‑energy solutions. The exchange of ideas and best practices is expected to inform future state programs, from renewable‑energy incentives to grid‑modernization projects.

While the federal government remains absent, New York’s proactive stance demonstrates how states can fill the gap, advancing both environmental stewardship and economic opportunity for residents across the Empire State.

Watch the full interview

The complete conversation with Lefton and Harris is available on CBS6’s website.

Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.