Green economy and green jobs - an analysis
New employment prospects pass through environmental protection
Recycling, energy efficiency, biodiversity protection and the use of renewable energy sources are good for the environment and constitute both an economic boost and an opportunity to create new jobs in the Environmental Goods and Services Sector (EGSS) linked to energy production and efficiencyand to the sustainable management of resources such as water and waste.
Recent data on the development of “green” economy show its impact on the EU economic cycle. Good environmental practices have increased employment by 20%, an amount that could grow to 30% by 2030. Jobs linked to the field of environment and energy efficiency in the Union have increased from 3 to 4,2 million between 2002 and 2011 and experienced a 20% rise between 2007 and 2011 in spite of recession.
The integration of environmental and employment policies is a great opportunity for the Europe 2020 strategy. “Green Jobs” are quickly transforming traditional roles and creating new professions. According to the EU Commission, sustainable growth could translate into 20 million new jobs by 2020.
In July 2014, the European Commission presented the “Green Employment Initiative” based on:
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-upholding a debate on the prospects of the green economy involving all stakeholders, employers and trade unions and sharing knowledge and practices on the green sectors at international level;
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-identifying new competences that are needed and training for workers;
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-shifting the tax burden from work to pollution;
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-supporting small enterprises in the transition to comply with environmental regulations.
For information on the opportunities of the green economy, read the EU Commission communication.
The European Commission Communication with updated data on green jobs.