Oct. 22--COHOES -- A local paper-making company has joined a growing list of businesses that have split with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce over the chamber's campaign to deny global warming and block climate change legislation.

The action by Mohawk Fine Papers Inc., a privately held paper manufacturer, follows similar exits by computer maker Apple Inc. as well as utilities Exelon Corp., Pacific Gas & Electric and Public Service Company of New Mexico. The chamber, which says it is the world's biggest business federation, represents more than 3 million member companies.

"We believe that our continued membership in an organization that vigorously opposes sensible climate change policies is detrimental to our position as a business leader with a strong record in the areas of environmental innovation and climate protection," said George F. Milner, Mohawk's vice president for energy, environmental and government affairs.

"We understand that the U.S. Chamber's job is to promote policies that represent the consensus opinion of its membership; but the chamber also has a responsibility to shape that consensus with vision, guidance and leadership that looks beyond ideological divisions," he said.

Mohawk offsets its electrical useage with wind power renewable energy credits; it also sells certified recycled papers and produces paper certified as being responsibly harvested.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is facing increasing opposition from members for its efforts to stop the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating greenhouse gases thought to be responsible for global warming, and to stop the Waxman-Markey climate change bill from passing in the U.S. Congress.

Last month, the chamber called for a trial of global warming science along the lines of the infamous Scopes monkey trial -- in which teaching of the science of evolution was attacked -- but quickly dropped the demand amid criticism.

Between June and September of this year, the chamber spent $34.7 million lobbying against the Obama administration's proposals to overhaul energy policy, financial regulation and health care.

Brian Nearing can be reached at 454-5094 or bnearing@timesunion.com.

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