Rising energy costs have a dramatic effect on the bottom line. The annual average crude oil price has jumped from under $30 per barrel in 2003 to over $50 per barrel in 2005 (approximately a 40% increase)! Many companies have seen similar increases in their electricity bills, particularly in areas where deregulation has occurred. Even well established companies like Alcoa, Inc. have considered closing plants in response to their increasing energy spend.

The key for environmental managers is to convince financial decision-makers when it makes sense to spend money on pollution abatement and control.