Economists are notorious for offering advice on how to boost economic growth. So why in the world would some one provide advice on how to slow a state’s economy? Answer: To cut carbon emissions.

Eric Fruits writes in Oregon Business that the state’s efforts to cut carbon are sure to reduce the state’s economic growth. Similarly, reducing economic growth is one way to cut carbon emissions. Dr. Fruits provides five ways in which cutting carbon will slow the state’s economy:

1. Carbon taxes mean that every good purchased by every household and business in the state would be more expensive
2. “Green” energy mandates, euphemistically known as renewable portfolio standards, force companies to use more expensive sources of energy
3. Deferring road maintenance will reduce the flow of goods in an out of the state.
4. Eliminating industrial land means that carbon emitting businesses will have to locate elsewhere.
5. “Picking winners” with “green” tax credits will stifle investment in other businesses in the state.

Eric Fruits provided expert testimony to the Oregon Supreme Court regarding the economic impacts associated with reforms to the state’s public employee retirement system. In re: Consolidated PERS Litigation.