Each one of the pollution control strategies discussed here has some cost associated with it. Another ‘strategy’ is available also, of course. It is to take no action at all. In the electric power industry, utilities would not be required to install and operate emission control devices, and would thus be encouraged to burn the most inexpensive fuel. In the Northeast and Midwest this would continue to be high-sulfur coal. If the option of doing nothing were adopted, our energy would be less expensive and we would perceive that we are saving money. This option might especially look like a good deal when we sit down.
