Environmental, economic success in Fla. has manufacturing at core
Gov. Ron DeSantis continues to focus on Florida’s environment and its challenges with the recent appointment of a renowned biologist as the state’s first chief science officer.
In announcing the newly created position which will initially focus on water problems, the governor noted, “My environmental policy is just to do things that benefit Floridians. … We’re going to do what works.” As we work towards safeguarding our environment and applauding ongoing efforts to make our planet cleaner, we should keep in mind one group who has been a leading force behind creating reallife environmental solutions: America’s manufacturers.
In just the past decade, manufacturers have reduced their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 10 percent. Industry is actually producing fewer greenhouse gas emissions than they did in 1990, all while increasing their value to the economy. The same story is true when it comes to nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, coarse and fine particulate matter, sulfur dioxide and volatile organic compounds. Through new technology and a commitment to create a smaller emissions footprint, manufacturers from coast to coast are producing fewer environmentally undesirable emissions at the same time contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
In Florida, manufacturing is at the center of economic vitality. The state is home to over 20,000 manufacturing companies that produce a variety of goods, including aerospace products, batteries, food and beverages, communications equipment, pharmaceuticals, boats, and more. Many of these manufacturers are using innovative techniques such as resin infusion, closed mold processes, etc., in reducing emissions as well as biodegradable products to clean hand tools and equipment.
Today, manufacturers employ 4.3 percent of Florida’s workforce, contributing $51.86 billion to the state’s economy, which contributes to our historic low unemployment rate.
Like their counterparts nationwide, Florida’s manufacturers understand thoughtful solutions are the answer to helping the environment. Unfortunately, many communities nationwide are taking a different approach as public officials team up with trial attorneys to target manufacturers with senseless lawsuits. These public nuisance lawsuits allege that manufacturers should be held liable for the impacts of climate change. Thankfully, common sense has prevailed with two federal judges in California and New York ruling that this global issue belongs in the hands of the legislative and executive branches of the government, not in the courthouse.
It’s also important to note that while these lawsuits might stand a chance of lining the pockets of lawyers, they stand no chance of making a difference for the planet we call home.
What would make a difference? Solutions like those outlined by Ross Eisenberg, the Vice President of Energy and Resources for the National Association of Manufacturers. In a recent Politico op-ed, he calls for “creating unity around real, meaningful solutions that manufacturers can stand behind.” These include increasing adoption of energy- and water-efficient products and technologies, and creating public-private partnerships between the government and manufacturers.
It is collaborative solutions such as these, not lawsuits, which are needed to make a positive environmental impact. And that’s exactly what the manufacturing sector has been delivering for decades.
Mike Hankins is the vice-president of business development for Crevalle Boats in Wildwood.