Maggie ComstockAssociate, Policy
U.S. Green Building Council
Buzz words and hot topics come and go, but “green jobs” are here to stay. In a recovering economy, jobs remain a top priority for our leaders and the Americans they represent. Green building jobs represent a bright light in the recovery process, because these are long-term, high-quality jobs for the future. As the economy rebounds, there are employment needs at all levels of the proverbial “career ladder.” Green building fills the billet by supporting jobs at all professional and skill levels. Through the demand for LEED, energy and resource efficient buildings, and healthy, safe schools for our children, we are building an inclusive economy with green jobs for all. The third regional Good Jobs, Green Jobs Conference kicks off today in Philadelphia as a diverse group of stakeholders convene in support of good, green jobs.
Green building construction is supports jobs in a range of occupations. Booz Allen Hamilton estimates that from 2009-2013 the green building industry will support 8 million jobs throughout the economy, from “construction managers and carpenters to truck drivers and cost estimators.” These jobs will provide $396 billion in labor earnings and will generate an additional $554 billion in GDP. Just as all parts of an ecosystem are indispensible, ALL of the jobs in the green building supply chain are crucial to the functioning of the industry and economy.
