In a Sept. 20 report from Small Business Majority, a small business advocacy group, 87 percent of the 1,257 nationwide respondents agree that improving energy efficiency would help increase prosperity for small businesses. For businesses with fleets, a majority cite that they need more alt-fuel vehicles in order remain competitive and grow revenue.

One in 10 business fleets in the survey have purchased a hybrid, electric or other alt-fuel vehicle; many of those who have not taken these steps indicate an interest to purchase one in the future.

“The cars and trucks small business owners need, simply aren’t available right now,” says John Arensmeyer, founder and CEO of Small Business Majority, in the report’s accompanying press release. He added that he commends the current federal push to increase fuel-efficiency standards, in which 80 percent of survey participants say they would support legislation to push it to 60 mpg.

About 13 percent report government regulation as the largest problem facing their small business, and almost half cite the uncertainty of the economy and the rising daily cost to operate as strong factors. Only 24 percent of businesses say they are doing “well,” with construction businesses hurting the most.

The survey was commissioned by Small Business Majority and was conducted by Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research.