Rising Cost of Legal Pollution

The price of Southern California pollution credits traded on a system known as Regional Clean Air Incentives Market (RECLAIM) is rising and companies that cannot afford credits or reduce pollution may face fines or regulations."For example, a credit that allows a business to emit one pound of nitrogen oxide gas went for as little as 13 cents last year. The price was up to $1.14 in January and $37 in July, according to theAutomated Credit Exchange in Pasadena, which has processed more thantwo-thirds of the credits traded in Southern California."