New Greenhouse Gas Rules Can Create Opportunities for Small Businesses

John Arensmeyer

Original statement issued on March 26, 2012:

Rules proposed today by the Environmental Protection Agency that would limit greenhouse gas emissions from new power plants will help spur innovation and provide opportunities for small businesses to grow. What’s more, rules such as these are supported by a majority of small businesses—our primary job creators.

National opinion polling we released in September found 76 percent of small business owners support the EPA regulating carbon emissions under the Clean Air Act. Another 87 percent believe improving innovation and energy efficiency are good ways to increase prosperity for small businesses.

The Clean Air Act, under the direction of the EPA, has had a successful 40-year record of safeguarding our economic interests, along with the public health. It has created an atmosphere conducive to entrepreneurism, spurred the innovation of new American technologies and supported a massive increase in our nation’s gross domestic product.

Small business owners know the future of small business depends on change and innovation, which is why they support bold policies that will provide new business opportunities for increased investment in low and no-carbon technologies, as well as those that promote energy efficiency. They realize change and innovation will help stimulate our flagging economy.