Minn. Governor Unveils Green Jobs Initiative -- Occupational Health & Safety

Minn. Governor Unveils Green Jobs Initiative

Nov 13, 2008

Gov. Tim Pawlenty unveiled his "Green Jobs Investment Initiative," in which he will ask the state legislature to approve incentives for companies that bring green jobs to Minnesota.

The potential for job growth in green jobs is significant, the governor's office stated. According to a study released last month, 750,000 Americans work in what are considered green jobs. That number is expected to grow 4.2 million by 2038, accounting for 10 percent of new job growth over the next 30 years.

"The development of green jobs will be one of the biggest changes in our economy since the industrial revolution," Pawlenty said. "The proposals we are announcing today will fuel job growth by incentivizing new technology and innovation."

• New tax-free incentives through a "Green JOBZ" program that will provide the same tax exemptions found in the state’s JOBZ program to qualifying green job projects.
• A new Job Growth Investment Tax Credit, 50 percent of which will be targeted to green job projects that will promote the state’s renewable energy goals ($20 million).
• A new Small Business Investment Tax Credit for investments in qualified Minnesota businesses, 50 percent of which will be targeted to green job projects ($60 million).
• Incentives to expand the production and infrastructure for biomethane, solar and other renewable energy projects.
• Creation of a clean and green technology category as part of the Minnesota Cup competition to reward innovation and spark invention.
• Tracking energy usage by state government and holding government accountable for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.

The study showing strong potential for green job growth was prepared by Global Insight for the U.S. Conference of Mayors. It noted that "the vast majority of Green Jobs are not location dependent, so future Green Jobs will be located in cities or metropolitan areas that are currently the most attractive for investment, or in areas that actively increase their attractiveness relative to competing areas."

Industrial Hygiene Product Showcase

Halo™ Eye/Face Wash Provides Greatest Washdown

Bradley’s Halo™ eye and eye/face wash arms users with the most effective emergency relief available in the industry. Halo provides 20 percent better protection than any other model on the market. With a more uniform and complete spray pattern distribution, and exclusive features that increase hygiene, users attain the greatest contaminant relief and protection available. Using the latest technology in fluid dynamics, Halo works in tandem with a pressure regulated flow control and the spinning motion of water, which creates an optimal spray pattern to rinse off contaminants quickly and thoroughly, ensuring the most effective flush available. 3
Moldex Airwave Disposable Respirators

Say hello to the N95 mask that is so comfortable and easy breathing, it can positively impact worker productivity and happiness on the job. The AirWave’s proprietary pleated design makes breathing easier and comes in multiple sizes with an adjustable strap for a customizable fit. Airwaves also have an ultra-tough Dura-Mesh® shell that resists collapse even in the hottest and most humid conditions. They have a metal-free molded nose bridge that seals easily without a metal noseband for added protection and comfort. It’s official: AirWave is a difference you can feel. 3
Donaldson iCue™ Connected Filtration Monitoring

Donaldson's iCue™ Connected Filtration Monitoring technology is designed to remotely monitor a facility’s dust, fume, and mist collection equipment and provide operational insights. When connected to your facility’s dust collection system, the iCue service, can track three sets of operational data relevant to EHS professionals including differential pressure (dP), particulate trend monitoring, and relative airflow. The iCue connected filtration service monitors all three conditions and provides real-time data for accurate compliance reporting. 3