State Agencies Save $19.6 Million With Green Practices

Governor Andrew Cuomo says "green" policies at state agencies have saved New York taxpayers $19.6 million over the past five years, while reducing paper use and waste and increasing recycling.

A new report from the Office of General Services also found that state agencies are using green cleaning products, capturing and re-using rainwater and generating renewable energy.

OGS has also launched a Green NY website to help agencies cut costs.

Cuomo says the announcement comes during Earth Week, a weeklong celebration of New York's commitment to protecting the environment.

"New York is leading the nation by adopting green programs to reduce the environmental impact of government agencies while at the same time, saving money for taxpayers," Governor Cuomo said.  "By committing ourselves to reducing New York’s carbon footprint we take yet another step toward a cleaner, greener New York."