That is not true. When the pulp and paper industry was obliged to eliminate dioxins and furans, it didn't hurt them, it helped them. Cleaner plants and a better environmental image has helped industry hold on to its existing international sales, expand into new markets, and earn more profits. Eliminating the production of ozone depleting CFCs was not bad for our economy. Instead, Canadian companies are on the leading edge of ozone-friendly producers and service providers with a jump on their international competitors.
Companies save money by polluting less.
The winning industries of tomorrow will be those that achieve integrated economic and environmental efficiencies first. The winning municipalities of tomorrow will be those that lead by example by taking concrete steps to protect and enhance the environment of their own communities. There is a huge, and growing demand, in Canada and around the world for clean environmental products, services and technologies that turn the theory of sustainable development into a reality. Most of the new environmental industry sector is located in our urban areas. They are a major component of our local and national economies, and they are a major new generator of economic growth and job creation.