WHAT ARE ‘GREEN JOBS’?

Definition:

• Jobs with a direct positive impact on the environment.
• Contribute to overall environmental welfare and reducing negative impacts.
• Focus on creating a low-carbon economy.
• Include roles in renewable energy, resource conservation, and energy efficiency.

Significance:

For India:

• Potential in sectors like renewable energy, waste management, green transport, and urban farming.
• Can address climate vulnerability and unemployment.
• A national green jobs policy could be crucial for this dual challenge.

IN PERSPECTIVE:

Linking Unemployment and Climate Change:

• Unemployment and climate change are critical issues in India.
• Need for a national policy to address both challenges.
• Investment in green economy and policy formulation are key.

India’s Commitments:

• Net-zero economy by 2070.
• Reduction of 1 billion tonnes of emissions by 2030.
• 45% reduction in carbon intensity from 2005 levels.
• Potential to create 18 million green jobs by 2047.
• Decarbonisation could create 50 million jobs.

Current Challenges:

• Green jobs concept is still developing in India.
• Key sectors include renewable energy, green buildings, clean transportation, water management, waste management, and natural farming.
• Lack of a universally accepted definition and guidelines for evaluating employment effects.
• High climate vulnerability affecting over 80% of the population.
• Inconsistent progress and insufficient budget for the Environment Ministry.

Need for Policy and Support:

• Lack of comprehensive climate change policy.
• Need for enhanced private sector support.
• Importance of integrating ESG mandates for jobs in informal sectors.
• Focus on building climate-conscious careers and enabling a ‘just transition’.
• Need for a roadmap to adapt traditional industries to emerging technologies.

Current Limitations:

• Mixed signals in policy focus and technical capacity.
• Lack of engaging curriculum on climate change and just transition.
• Insufficient advanced climate science degrees and interdisciplinary courses.
• Need for a strong policy push to integrate education, training, upskilling, and finance.

Conclusion:

• Green jobs are vital for the impact economy.
• They offer opportunities to balance personal success with environmental stewardship.
• A comprehensive policy and strong support systems are essential for driving a green and just transition.