– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – 

BUSINESS COMMUNITY AMONG THE HUNDREDS THAT PACKED STATE HOUSE IN SUPPORT OF MA CARBON PRICING

Boston, Massachusetts – June 20th, 2017 – Business leaders from across the state gathered at the State House today to testify on behalf of carbon pricing bills S.1821 and H.1726. They joined nearly 500 other carbon pricing supporters. The legislation would put a small fee on carbon pollution, and rebate most or all of the revenue back to households and businesses. The bills aim to incentivize the transition towards clean technology and investments in Massachusetts’ fastest growing sectors of the economy.

For the past few years, the message from companies as large as Microsoft to small companies across Massachusetts has been clear: the business community wants a price on carbon pollution. Carbon pricing acts as a planning tool for companies, allowing them to foresee future energy trends and incorporate it into their business model. Under the legislation, rebates to businesses are based on employees, so when they succeed in decreasing their fossil fuel usage, rebates can be substantial.

The Alliance for Business Leadership (ABL) is one of the several business associations endorsing carbon pricing. “The Alliance represents business leaders who are committed to social mobility and equality, and creating a resilient environment and economy for future generations,” said Jesse Mermell, President of ABL. “Putting a price on carbon is the most impactful way to do good while driving innovation and job growth in the Commonwealth.”

J.J. Bartlett, President of Fishing Partnership Support Services and member of ABL, was one business leader who testified on behalf of carbon pricing. “As one of the oldest industries and economic engines of the Commonwealth, we see the financial and geographical impacts of climate change on the front lines,” Bartlett said. “Our fishermen are fiercely independent and no fans of unnecessary regulation. However, they understand that carbon pricing is the fair, market-driven, simple, and common-sense way to make measurable progress in combatting climate change to protect our oceans.”

David Miller, Founder of Clean Energy Venture Group, was another business leader who testified at the hearing. “Carbon pricing is the single most effective policy that the state can implement to reduce economy-wide emissions while providing the predictability that businesses and investors need,” Miller said. “A carbon price would signal to investors that Massachusetts is committed to more reliable and sustainable forms of energy, encouraging greater investment, innovation, and jobs in a rapidly growing sector.”

This simple mechanism is one which supporters contend would have tremendous benefits for the economy, human health, and clean technology. By utilizing this cost-effective tool, Massachusetts can harness the power of the market to stimulate economic growth and encourage innovation, clean energy, and efficiency while helping Massachusetts reach its emissions reduction mandates.

“Putting a price on carbon makes sense: It is a simple mechanism that both businesses and consumers can understand,” explained Michael Green, Executive Director of Climate Action Business Association. “If Massachusetts intends to showcase leadership and meet its emissions requirements, a carbon price is the most cost-effective and efficient policy mechanism to get us there.”

Today’s hearing is part of the Campaign for a Clean Energy Future’s larger goal of instituting carbon pricing in Massachusetts. Since last year, the campaign has been working to gather support among legislators and educate constituents about the benefits of carbon pricing. So far, the bills have gathered over 80 co-sponsors – more than one-third of the legislature. Last week, 200 supporters attended 50 meetings with legislators during the campaign’s Carbon Pricing Lobby Day.

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Climate Action Business Association is a Boston-based organization that helps local businesses take action on climate change. CABA’s approach balances member education, public outreach, and dialogue with officials, and publicity about successful business and community climate change initiatives.

Business Leaders for Climate Action is a network of forward thinking businesses, associations, and industry leaders calling for Massachusetts to put a price on carbon.