MICRON--OUR CURRENT FOCUS
SustainCNY is currently working to increase public engagement in the proposed Micron microchip manufacturing facility near Syracuse. We want to avoid adverse environmental and energy impacts, and ensure transparency and accountability regarding commitments made in exchange for public funding.
MICRON WORKING GROUPS
GET INVOLVED! DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN EXPECTED JUNE 2025
SustainCNY work groups are preparing to provide public comment on Micron's draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), expected in early June. Go to the "Get Involved" section of this website for more information and to sign the petition requesting more time to review and comment on the EIS.
Environmental Impacts Working Groups
There are four environmental impact subgroups:
- Water and wastewater (including PFAS): Wastewater from chips plants contains a wide range of pollutants, including heavy metals, acids, bases, organic solvents, and specialty chemicals related to the industry. Many of these chemicals require specialized treatment to successfully remove them. Of particular concern are PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances) dubbed “forever chemicals” since they persist almost indefinitely in the environment.
- Air pollution: Micron's air emissions will include carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, carbon equivalent of perfluorocarbons, sulfur hexafluoride, carbon dioxide equivalent of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HFCs) emissions, and methane.
- Climate impacts: Greenhouse gas emissions, massive energy use, groundwater and stormwater impacts...Micron's climate consequences are massive.
- Site impacts of construction: Construction of the gigantic chip fab will disrupt wetlands,flora and fauna, and water resources.
Micron's Energy Impacts
Micron has the potential to be a model renewable energy project. It has pledged to go renewable in exchange for $5.5 billion in NY GreenChips funding--but will they? The terms of the GreenChips program are squishy. Or will Central New York residents end up paying higher gas and electricity rates because Micron uses enormous amounts of conventional fuel?
Jobs and the Local Economy
Micron sold its Clay project with the promise of 9,000 jobs by 2045 Micron needs to be held accontable for delivering on the promise of high-paying jobs, as well as investments in local job training and education.
Housing and Transportation
How will Micron impact traffic, parking, and public transportation? What will the influx of new workers mean for housing supply and affordability?
Community Benefits Agreement
In exchange for funding and tax benefits under the NY Green CHIPS Act, Micron has promised to establish goals for hiring members of disadvantaged local communities for fab construction and operations, Micron also has promised investments in local job training and education. A SustainCNY workgroup is working with Jobs to Move America (JMA) to create an enforcable Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) with Micron as part of a Communication Workers of America (CWA) effort to secure a labor agreement for the Clay fabs.