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PERC History

PERC was started in 1980 by a handful of economists who began by asking the question, "If markets can produce bread and cars, why can't they produce environmental quality?" "Since its founding, PERC has moved from being a voice in the wilderness (both literally and figuratively) to holding a prominent place on the environmental policy stage. Today, mainstream thinking has come much closer to PERC's philosophy. Thanks in large part to the hard work of PERC scholars. "Free market environmentalists are pushing against an open door," says David Morris of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance.

Research and policy analysis will remain a cornerstone of PERC's agenda. Current topics of research include public lands management, water marketing, timber, endangered species, fisheries preservation, conservation easements, environmental entrepreneurship, and land use issues. With a growing network of scholars, we expect our flow of ideas to increase.

Furthermore, PERC plans to continue to take its research beyond the bookshelves through its education and outreach initiatives. We are currently engaged in cultivating a growing number of students, environmental leaders, journalists, teachers, and policy makers so they can put market forces to work in the environment.

The next step in PERC's growth is PERC University, a place where professionals from many fields can gather to exchange ideas and explore new prospects for free market environmentalism. A series of scholarly workshops that have brought together journalists and economists, scientists and policy makers, professionals who do not typically interact, for vigorous debate and discussion of new ideas.

We have an exciting agenda at PERC that builds on more than a quarter century of experience. I feel confident that we will expand our influence over the next 25 years with the support of  other people who are looking to make a difference.