WMTW Maine: Maine businesses create new group to tackle climate change

PORTLAND, Maine — Link to article

Several Maine businesses have created a new group aimed at tackling climate change.

ClimateWork Maine will focus on developing actions businesses can take as well as sharing ideas and technologies businesses can use to reduce carbon emissions and grow.

The group also wants to promote the common ground that exists between businesses, community needs, the Maine Climate Action Plan and the state’s 10-year strategic plan.

“A lot of people think we can solve this climate issue with government action and individual action. It’s not true at all. We have to have the business community involved. Now there are almost 150,000 small businesses in Maine. Not all of them are going to do something, but a lot of them will," ClimateWork Maine President Alan Caron said.

The group said Maine’s longtime industries, such as forestry, fishing and farming are experiencing significant changes due to climate change.

“Climate change requires us to adapt, invest and grow, or suffer decline. Maine businesses are positioned to lead a successful transformation, from the smallest immigrant-owned company to new startups, farms, restaurants and the state's largest corporations,” said Doug McKeown of Woodward & Curran.

ClimateWork Maine has launched a new website with more information on the initiative.