Coalition launched to work for NY fracking ban

ALBANY — Dozens of grassroots environmental groups are joining forces to launch a coordinated campaign to ban natural gas development using high-volume hydraulic fracturing in New York state.

The effort launched Monday comes as the state Department of Environmental Conservation works to complete a four-year review of whether shale gas development using the controversial technology known as “fracking” can be done safely under strict regulations.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo has said a decision on whether to permit fracking in New York is likely in several months.

Sandra Steingraber is a biologist who recently won the Heinz Award for her work on how chemical contaminants in air, water and food endanger human health. She says she’ll donate much of her prize money to start the anti-fracking coalition.