Over 100 iconic New York City pizzerias are facing potential closure due to a recently approved plan aimed at reducing carbon emissions by 75% from wood- and coal-fired stoves.
The regulation, set to take effect on April 27, has prompted some businesses to shell out more than $600,000 for new smoke-eating systems in anticipation of the impending mandate.
The rule targets restaurants with cook stoves installed before May 2016, requiring affected pizzeria owners to install a filter and hire an engineer for regular carbon emission inspections.
Brooklyn pizzeria owner Paul Giannone, widely known as Paulie Gee, expressed his dismay to Fox News, stating, “this regulation will go a long way to put an end to charming wood-fired pizza restaurants in New York City. A sad day in my opinion.”
Mayor Eric Adams’ Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) defends the measure, emphasizing its positive impact on the health of New Yorkers and reduction of hospital visits and costs.
DEP representative Edward Timbers told The New York Post, “all New Yorkers deserve to breathe healthy air, and wood- and coal-fired stoves are among the largest contributors of harmful pollutants in neighborhoods with poor air quality.”
City Councilman Justin Brannan, chair of the Finance Committee, proposes a tax break for the estimated 130 affected businesses. He emphasizes the importance of assisting these establishments in compliance rather than immediately penalizing them. Brannan’s proposal awaits review by the DEP on behalf of the mayor.
Some businesses using wood and anthracite stoves can apply for a variance but must provide evidence of their inability to comply with the mandate.
The initial proposal of the rule, reported last summer by The Post, stirred concerns among pizza lovers and entrepreneurs who feared its impact on beloved spots and the taste of their favorite slices.
New York pizza aficionados criticized the ordinance, with one commenter urging officials to focus on larger pollution sources like diesel trucks instead of targeting pizza ovens.
Concerns also arise about the financial strain on these iconic pizza joints, potentially leading to closures or increased costs for the already priciest pizza in the country.
As the April 27 deadline approaches, the fate of these iconic pizza joints hangs in the balance, sparking debate over the balance between environmental goals and the preservation of cherished local businesses.
The post How NYC’s New Green Rule Could Destroy Iconic Pizza Shops appeared first on Resist the Mainstream.
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Author: Jordyn M.
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