Green, Local, and Growing. Findings from a Survey of Green Businesses in California

摘要

During periods of severe economic crisis, policy makers and citizens look towards the future to identify and support emerging industries that hold the promise of renewed growth in investments and employment opportunities. As unemployment remains high and as the environmental challenges brought on by global warming mount, the green economy has garnered significant attention as a potential solution to both problems. However, as with any new industry, economic growth depends first on the pace of innovation and commercialization, and then on the emergence of markets. In Green, Local, and Growing, we present the results of a survey of green businesses in California, focusing specifically on the questions of what makes green businesses different and how they are innovating and growing at the regional scale.