Energy powers our economy and our lives. Policy alone cannot overcome the energy challenges that we face as a nation. Without access to affordable and reliable supplies of energy throughout the country, U.S. businesses are forced to move elsewhere, taking U.S. jobs and the prosperity they bring to local economies with them. The more local economies suffer, the more our global competitiveness is negatively impacted.

However, we also need to balance that supply and demand without compromising our environment. As a nation, state and local community we can reduce the environmental footprint we leave behind.

With continuing technological innovations and efficiency, the nation's air and water are cleaner today than in previous years. What's more, with expected continued emphasis on the development and expansion green technologies and efficiencies, business will reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the next 20 years by approximately 30% for each unit of gross domestic product.

The Moore County Chamber of Commerce believes that economic growth and environmental progress are complimentary pursuits and that responsible business and environmental leaders can work together to ensure a healthy environment and economic growth.