Mythbusters
The Chesapeake Bay Foundation made national news when the organization scrutinized the all-too-frequently-invoked notion that we must choose between a healthier environment and economic prosperity – and found that we can have both.
The report, “Debunking the “Job Killer” Myth: How Pollution Limits Encourage Jobs in the Chesapeake Bay Region,” observed that “sweeping assertions about economic ruin caused by environmental regulations are nothing new,” and then gave examples of doomsday warnings that did not prove true. The report also found that cries about pollution limits for the Chesapeake Bay are a “variation on this old song.” But a projection showed that stormwater projects and sewage plant upgrades could create nearly 240,000 jobs in the region.
The opinion-makers at The Capital pointed to the report, and concluded: “Environmental protection certainly isn't cost-free for taxpayers facing ‘flush fees,’ storm water management fees or other government levies. But what needs to be challenged is the often-repeated argument that it’s a self-evident drain on the economy.”
"Cleanup takes effort"
In a similar vein, a Baltimore Sun editorial discussed the Bay restoration effort and its associated costs, and found that the cleanup requires more than a “business-as-usual” approach from local governments. The editorial also points to surveys showing Maryland residents are willing to pay for a cleaner Bay, and urges voters to tell their elected leaders that their local jurisdiction should do its share.
Speaking of surveys, on January 19 the Clean Waters, Healthy Families coalition released the results of an opinion poll showing that despite challenging economic conditions nearly two-thirds of Maryland voters support increasing the Bay Restoration Fund, which is used to upgrade sewage treatment plants and septic systems. The poll also found that majorities – including those in rural areas – support tighter regulations on septic systems.
The Sun later joined the discussion – and described the proposed increase in the Bay Restoration Fund fee as “money well spent.”
Healthier air
The Sun also applauded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for issuing standards to reduce air pollution, including mercury, from power plants. The newspaper’s editorial pointed out that Maryland’s power plants will be largely unaffected because Maryland had already required pollution reductions through the Maryland Healthy Air Act. But, as the piece notes, the new rule is “still good news for Maryland residents, as airborne pollution does not stop at state lines and cleaner air is expected to yield billions of dollars in health benefits nationwide.”
The editorial also discusses the potential for some older plants to be closed, but notes that emerging technologies will bring opportunities for growth and jobs.
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