For a better view of the economic revival in Michigan, tune in to PBS stations in the state this Wednesday. As part of the Michigan At Risk series, Northern Michigan University professor Dwight Brady has produced a half-hour special called Michigan's Green Energy Economy. The program compares booming renewable energy companies with the downturn in more traditional manufacturing businesses. Brady says that what's good for the environment is now good for businesses.

"This program documents the viability of constructing a new economic engine that generates financial incentives for reducing environmental damage rather than exacerbating it. In an ideal world, we would all find the will power to change our consumption habits simply because it is the morally right thing to do. In the real world, however, we will likely not change unless it is the economically right thing to do," he said in a release.

Shot in 12 counties around the state, the show looks at wind and solar and biofuel companies. The special will be broadcast November 15th at 8 p.m. on all Michigan PBS stations, followed by a panel discussion hosted by Tim Skubick.

[Source: Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association]