by: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

This report assembles evidence for existing green jobs and presents estimates for future green employment in the key economic sectors of renewable energy, buildings and construction, transportation, basic industry, agriculture and forestry. The report indicates that a global transition to a low‐carbon and sustainable economy can create large numbers of green jobs across these sectors and become an engine for development. Current green job creation is occurring in both developed and developing countries.The report defines ‘green jobs’ as work in agricultural, manufacturing, research and development, administrative, and service activities that contribute substantially to preserving or restoring environmental quality. Specifically, but not exclusively, this includes jobs that help to protect ecosystems and biodiversity; reduce energy, materials, and water consumption through highefficiency strategies; de‐carbonize the economy; and minimize or altogether avoid generation of all forms of waste and pollution. However, the report also acknowledges that there will be winners and losers and public policy should seek to minimize disparities. Forward‐thinking government policies will be indispensible, including subsidies, carbon markets,tax reform, regulatory tools and targets, feed‐in tariffs, eco‐labeling, R&D investment, and international aid.

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