"Beyond Green Jobs: Building Lasting Opportunities in Energy Efficiency" declares that through thoughtful planning and research, diverse partnerships, and innovative strategies, the US can create solutions to our multiple economic and environmental crises while also creating more opportunities for diverse communities. The book is available for online purchase and free electronic download. Download Beyond Green Jobs and forward to your networks.

Beyond Green Jobs puts forth a foundation to bring energy efficiency to scale in a tough economy. Some major points:

• There are many shades of green. Going deep green can provide the greatest benefits to the economy, the environment, and the community. 
• Deep green means lifelong opportunities for plumbers, HVAC mechanics, and other skilled construction craft workers. Rather than receiving training to just replace lightbulbs, a worker can become an electrician and have a career far into the future.
• Many innovative programs across the country are creating good green jobs despite a tough economy. These programs are forging diverse partnerships, creating high quality jobs, employing creative financing strategies, and generating demand for energy efficiency.
• Knowledge of the construction industry matters. Construction can exploit workers in dangerous and temporary dead-end jobs, or it can provide entry to stable, middle-class careers. It is important to build upon tools that work.
Also, check out photos of the launch party and download infographics from the book.

Center for Climate Change Solutions Director Paul Bunje sits on the City's Green Retrofit and Workforce Development Advisory Council, which is overseeing implementation of the ordinance discussed in "Beyond Green Jobs."

Published: Friday, April 06, 2012

  Write to Us

The UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability welcomes your comments.