Georgia, South Carolina governors discuss balancing economy and environment

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster gave a fireside chat at the Environmental Council of the States spring meeting on Monday. The meeting brought together environmental agency leaders from across the country.

The pair spoke about how they prioritize economic development and environmental concerns, pointing out some of their states’ biggest industries- agriculture and tourism- rely on environmental protection.

They also spoke about the importance of cooperation and communication between states.

“Without economy, growth, without the environmental and cultural heritage, and without good, solid education, those are the three things you have to have and they have to all be a part of the same effort,” McMaster said.

Kemp said the Georgia-South Carolina border region is one of the fastest growing in the United States.

“Very important that you’re growing the right way,” Kemp said. “Thinking about our ports’ sustainability efforts, and some of the things that they’ve done, electrifying cranes and trains, and other things really sets an example for other parts of the country.”

At the end of the discussion, both governors signed a collaboration commitment on water economy and the environment-economy relationship.