The Refinishing Touch Blog

On Friday the Obama administration took a historic stance on emissions, with the first formal recognitions of the potential threats of climate change as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) confirmed that carbon dioxide and five other gases threaten public welfare.

Findings highlighted that concentrations of these gases are at unprecedented levels as a result of human emissions, and these high levels are most probably the cause of the rise in average temperatures and other changes in our climate. Lisa Jackson, Administrator for the EPA said: 'Greenhouse gas pollution is a serious problem now and for future generations.'

Government statistics reveal the US produces 6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide a year and in naming this and other greenhouse gases as threats, the EPA has committed itself to act. These are far-reaching changes, and nothing will happen overnight. But as the process moves to public hearings and review before any regulations can be formalized, it's a move to address global warming on a federal level. This a fundamental shift in our country's attitude and policy.

There are concerns, however of the financial impact of regulations on American businesses: for many American industries in energy production; car manufacturing; the travel business - the impact of strong regulations could be shattering. While we applaud a move to protect the environment, as an American corporation and supporters of fellow American business, we are also wary of the impact on the economy.

Time will tell, but we'll be watching both sides of the argument closely.

Labels: Carbon dioxide, EPA, government