Low Carbon Jobs for Europe
Low Carbon Jobs for Europe
Date of the report
June 2009
Author of the report
WWF
Purpose of the report
This report shows that at least 3.4 million European jobs are directly related to renewable energy, sustainable transport and energy efficient goods and services. This compares with 2.8 million jobs in polluting industries, such as mining, electricity, gas, cement, and iron and steel. It is predicted that the low-carbon economy will continue to expand in the future, whereas employment in extractive and climate polluting industries will continue to decline.
Available figures suggest that in Europe close to 400,000 people are employed in renewable energy activities, some 2.1 million in efficient transport, and over 900,000 in energy efficiency goods and services. These jobs include, for example, manufacturing, installation and maintenance of wind turbines and solar panels, and construction works to improve efficiency in existing buildings. Related indirect jobs are estimated at approximately another 5 million.
All are showing significant growth, with particular focus on wind power, solar photovoltaic, bioenergy, public transport and building sectors.
Relevance to the region
The West Midlands has the potential to employ many more people in low carbon industries as these expand in the future. The region's manufacturing industries in particular are well placed to produce renewable energy sources.
What SWM liked
We like the clear layout and use of graphs and tables to illustrate the findings and highlight the key figures.
Links and Contact information
For more information please visit the WWF website, call 01483 426444, fax 01483 426409 or email supporterrelations@wwf.org.uk.