The revenue generated by fair use industries has saw a 31% increase since 2002 and now provides jobs for nearly 11 million Americans.

Ed Black, President and CEO of CCIA, stated:

Much of the unprecedented economic growth of the past ten years can actually be credited to the doctrine of fair use, as the Internet itself depends on the ability to use content in a limited and nonlicensed manner. To stay on the edge of innovation and productivity, we must keep fair use as one of the cornerstones for creativity, innovation and, as today’s study indicates, an engine for growth for our country”.

Later on, the study stresses out that fair use value amounts to $2.2 trillion, while copyright based value amounts to $1.3 trillion.

The conclusions of the study aim to make lawmakers think again when it comes to altering current copyright legislation. Future changed might have a deeper impact than previously thought and therefore “balance” is a most important requirement.

The complete (PDF format) study is available here