How do emissions trading systems help control air pollution?

Emissions trading systems are designed to reduce overall air pollution by creating a market-based approach that incentivizes companies to lower their emissions. By allocating a limited number of emission allowances, these systems allow businesses to buy, sell, or trade their allowances based on their emission levels. This creates a financial motivation for companies to find innovative ways to reduce emissions, as those that reduce emissions below their allowance can sell the excess to others who need more.

This system is effective because it aligns economic interests with environmental goals; companies that can reduce emissions at a lower cost are rewarded financially, while those that face higher costs can purchase allowances instead. Ultimately, this promotes a reduction in overall emissions, as the market encourages efficiency and investment in cleaner technologies, rather than imposing blanket restrictions or taxes that may not motivate companies to innovate.