Protecting the Environment Could 'Renew' State's Economy
Friday, January 19, 2007
Though many are inclined to curse it, North Dakota's signature wind could actually be blowing economic opportunity our way. The wind, or the canola and corn crops raised here, can all be used to create energy without sending a lot of pollutants into the air or water. Today, lawmakers at the state legislature are boning up on their knowledge of renewable energy during what the state Department of Commerce has christened "Renewable Energy Day." Bob White is a retired air force major and a member of the "Clean Electricity Task Force" for the Dakota Resource Council, and he says North Dakota is in a great position when it comes to the growing demand for clean fuel.
"There's no doubt about it. We're in a position to be a leader in almost any of the areas, and from a national concern, we need to get in some sort of position where we're not so dependent on overseas oil, particularly from the Middle East. It's a cause of great concern militarily and certainly politically."
But economic gains and self-reliance are only part of it. White believes the greater good is served when we supply our children with a clean and healthy world.
"While we're trying to develop these energy sources, we're trying to do it in an environmentally sensitive way."
"Renewable Energy Day" runs from 8:00 to 1:00 today at the state Capitol. Exhibitors are set up in Memorial Hall.
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