Cap and trade is an environmental policy tool that delivers results with a mandatory cap on emissions while providing sources flexibility in how they comply. Successful cap and trade programs reward innovation, efficiency and early action, and provide strict environmental accountability without inhibiting economic growth.

 

Examples of successful cap and trade programs include the nationwide Acid Rain Program and the regional NO_x Budget Trading Program in the Northeast. Additionally, EPA issued the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR) on March 10, 2005, to build on the success of these programs and achieve significant additional emission reductions. (Source: EPA / Photo: Library of Congress)