NYC burns pizzerias with new rule cutting smoky pollutants by 75%: 'You're going after pizza?' | 10 March 2024 | New York City has quietly approved a controversial green plan to require pizzerias and matzah bakeries using decades-old wood- and coal-fired stoves to cut their smoky pollutants by 75%. Mayor Eric Adams's Department of Environmental Protection said the fresh edict takes effect April 27, with some city businesses having already coughed up more than $600,000 for new smoke-eating systems in anticipation of the expected mandate. "You are going after pizza? Glorious New York pizza?" groused Mike Dabin in a recent online comment to the city DEP. Businesses using wood and anthracite stoves can apply for a variance but need evidence to prove they are unable to comply with the mandate.