More than 1,000 energy and environmental companies call Georgia home, many of which are active on the global market. Utilizing the State’s abundant timber resources, for example, Georgia has begun marketing wood products as alternative fuel sources to several European countries. Exports including wood pellets and chips doubled from 2005 to 2006. In addition, state companies in the water and air purification sectors exported more than $31.6 million in products and equipment in 2006. Biofuels have also become vital components of Georgia’s environmental and energy technology industry. Companies such as C2 Biofuels are converting the State’s pine trees—one of Georgia’s must sustainable resources that has seen a 15% increase since 1997—to ethanol.
Innovation in Georgia’s environmental and energy sectors is an integral part of the state’s goal to maximize economic efficiency and maintain high living standards in all communities. Thanks to its natural resources, business-friendly atmosphere and state-supported research, Georgia has fostered a strong balance between environmental consciousness and economic development. In Georgia green is not only the color of nature, but also of the dollar.
In Georgia, environmental consciousness makes sense both economically and socially. Our state is working hard and will continue to work hard to ensure that the balance between business and the environment remains beneficial for all sides.
To learn more about the energy and environmental industry in Georgia, please click here or visit our website at www.georgia-global.org.