N.Y. Environmental Conservation Law § 53-0101: Legislative purpose

§ 53-0101. Legislative purpose.

There is a direct relationship between the planting of trees, shrubs

and associated vegetation in sufficient number in populated areas and

the health, safety, and welfare of communities. Trees and such

vegetation abate noise, provide welcome shade to people, preserve the

balance of oxygen in the air by removing carbon dioxide and fostering

air quality, and add color and verdure to human construction. They also

stabilize the soil and control water pollution by preventing soil

erosion and flooding, yield advantageous microclimatic effects, and

provide a natural habitat for wildlife. The destructive and

indiscriminate removal of trees and related vegetation causes increased

municipal costs for proper drainage control, impairs the benefits of

occupancy of existing residential properties and impairs the stability

and value of both improved and unimproved real property in the area of

destruction, and adversely affects the health, safety, and general

welfare of the inhabitants of the state. In the interests of a greener

and more livable state, it is determined by the legislature that an

affirmative program to encourage the conservation and planting of trees,

shrubs and other vegetation is necessary in the public interest in order

that coming generations will continue to enjoy and benefit by our care

in a green New York.