States have always shared the role of environmental protection with the Federal Government. Environmental taxes, brownfield redevelopment and policies promoting environmental justice are components of a healthy economy and environment for all communities. Environmental taxes are a source of revenue for states that also help to ensure environmental quality. States currently use tax incentives to promote recycling, mass transportation, and investment in sustainable and fuel efficient technologies. In many states, fees and taxes on natural resource severance, pollution and solid waste disposal provides needed revenue for environmental protection and the general fund.
Brownfield redevelopment integrates economic development and environmental clean-up.
Efforts to restore and develop these former waste sites is a community development strategy that also provides funds for environmental clean up. Redeveloped brownfields provide a new source of economic activity that can increase the tax base in underserved communities, and reduce the need for development of open space. Environmental justice ensures all communities have access to a healthy environment regardless of race or socio-economic status. Environmental protection is not just an economic issue, but also a race issue. All too often toxic waste sites and poor water quality are present in neighborhoods of people of color.