Empire State Development Introduces Small Business Environmental Support Office – Buffalo Rising

Empire State Development (ESD) has announced the launch of the Small Business Environmental Support Office (SBESO), a new initiative designed to assist small businesses across New York State in understanding and complying with environmental regulations. The program, introduced as part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2024 State of the State agenda, aims to balance the state’s environmental sustainability goals with economic development priorities.

The SBESO offers businesses guidance on navigating federal and state environmental standards related to air, water, solid and hazardous waste, and petroleum and chemical bulk storage, among other regulations.

“Small businesses are not just the backbone of our economy; they are also partners in helping New York achieve our environmental goals,” said Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight. “ESD’s new Small Business Environmental Support Office will be a resource for small businesses as they navigate an evolving environmental landscape. Small businesses in New York State now have a trusted advisor in understanding and complying with federal and state environmental rules.”

The SBESO is designed to support businesses with 100 or fewer employees, offering free and confidential assistance in the following areas:

• Compliance: Identifying applicable regulations and helping businesses draft compliance plans.
• Mediation: Assisting with resolving disputes and addressing complaints.
• Outreach: Keeping businesses informed about regulatory updates, compliance deadlines, and emerging issues.
• Business Support: Collaborating with business organizations and regulatory agencies to relay feedback from small businesses.
• Sustainability: Providing tools and resources for energy efficiency, pollution prevention, and resource conservation to help businesses adopt sustainable practices.

The SBESO aims to simplify the process of understanding and adhering to environmental regulations. It offers guidance to help businesses avoid noncompliance and address any violations efficiently.

Small businesses can contact the SBESO by calling (877) 247-2329 or emailing SBESO@esd.ny.gov. Additional details about the office and its services are available at esd.ny.gov/SBESO. For more information about ESD’s initiatives, visit esd.ny.gov.