Mainers see economy, ecology meshing
Copyright © 2002 Blethen Maine Newspapers Inc.
AUGUSTA — Survey results released Monday show Mainers believe there is no conflict between having a strong economy while maintaining clean environmental standards.
The survey, paid for by the Maine Conservation Voters Education Fund, indicates that 75 percent of those polled think economic gain and environmental protection can occur at the same time. The results are consistent throughout the state, with little variation among regions.
"It's fair to say the environment is an issue with Maine voters, particularly water pollution," said Mark Mellman, president of the Mellman Group, the company hired to conduct the survey.
When asked a general question not specifically related to the environment, 47 percent of those polled said the state is on the wrong track, while 38 percent said it is going in the right direction. Mellman said that question is posed in many surveys across the country.
"Mainers are somewhat more negative than the rest of the country," Mellman said.
The phone survey conducted in August polled about 400 likely voters in Maine. The margin for error is about 5 percent.
Other findings showed 87 percent say environmental issues are important when deciding how to vote. And 76 percent believe environmental problems such as air and water pollution cause health problems.
The poll asked people whether they oppose or favor air-quality proposals, including requiring vehicles to provide better fuel mileage, and tax incentives for efficient vehicles. On the issue of greater mileage, 69 percent favored the idea and 26 percent opposed it.
On the tax-incentive question, 59 percent favored it and 35 percent opposed.
Eliza Townsend, executive director of the Maine Conservation Voters Education Fund, said the results will serve as a baseline for future surveys.
"We're really excited about the depth of support of environmental issues," she said.
For complete survey results, go to www.protectmaine.org.
Susan M. Cover — 623-1056 scover@centralmaine.com