Green Daily

On Wednesday, a controversial "Buy American" clause was diluted by the Senate, after being under consideration for inclusion in President Barack Obama's economic stimulus package. This clause would require public works projects to use only American-made materials in order to receive funds from this stimulus package. As "stimulating" as that may sound to the US economy, the fact is that it would be a pipe dream to assume that many things could be made with only American-made materials.

One perfect example of this is the alternative-fuel choices that use imported batteries, photovoltaics and other components manufactured outside of the country. While it may not put a halt to the production of these products, it would certainly slow down the process. On top of that, it could incite a trade war of sorts, diminishing the international trade reputation of the United States. However, we may just be in the situation now to use this stimulus funding to rebuild the country into a green technology giant.

"There are widespread expectations that Mr. Obama's stimulus plan will transform the United States into the world's largest growth market for green technologies." The New York Times states. "It promises $150 billion over a decade to create five million jobs and update energy infrastructure. But few believe the United States can reach those goals alone."