How would an objectivist handle the problem of air pollution? I understand pollution with regard to property rights, but something that is held in common to all is a different matter.
I think that it would be acceptable to hold businesses accountable for the pollution they emit by offering financial incentives. For example, a company would be fined a certain amount of money each year based on how much CO2, or some other noxious gas, is released from their smokestacks. This would seem to create an incentive for using cleaner energy resources or developing better energy methods.
Any thoughts?