Two of the nation's overriding challenges are keeping America competitive in the global economy, and dealing with a variety of environmental problems, such as global climate change. All too often, action to meet these two challenges is thought of as involving a choice between economic growth and environmental quality.

In reality, this is a false choice. America's economic future may well depend on its ability to develop globally competitive new clean technologies, and private-sector innovation and technology must play a major role in environmental improvements.

North Carolina Lieutenant Governor Beverly Perdue is one of a growing number of elected officials who understand that growth and environmental protection must go hand in hand and who are trying to position their states and communities as leaders in green growth.

Recently, the lt. gov. introduced the 'NC Green Act' that provides tax credits and incentives for businesses focused on alternative, sustainable energy. She is working alongside environmental and business leaders in hopes of stimulating biofuel production, energy efficient technologies, green building design and other green technology.

"In North Carolina and across America, we see that there is profit in protecting the environment," said Perdue. "Globally, business and government leaders understand there is gold in going green." In fact, green technology revenues worldwide in 2005 were estimated at $2.2 billion and growing, giving states strong incentive to encourage this new area of global economic activity.

Perdue's legislation will create the NC Green Business Fund -- a mix of tax credits and incentives to drive green energy projects within North Carolina. With an initial investment of $15 million, the fund will invest in green companies within the state, both encouraging new companies to locate in North Carolina and assisting existing companies expand.

Perdue believes that North Carolina is destined to be a national leader in green energy efficiency. "North Carolina should be a leader in creating a green economy," she said. "We have all the right assets, tremendous agriculture diversity, a thriving biotech sector and world-class researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs."

Leaders like Perdue may succeed not only in repositioning their own states for prominent roles in the emerging global economy, but in helping convince Americans generally that going green can pay off with stronger growth, better jobs, and an improved quality of life.