So far, there isn’t a universally accepted definition for a green job, at least not one that politicians, pundits, energy professionals and “average Joes’” can agree on. This poses a problem for advocates who are working to create green jobs. There are, however, some roles in the marketplace that we can all agree meet some definition of a green job. For example, a person who works in a factory assembling wind turbine components is definitely a green collar worker. But less clear, perhaps, is the designation of a mechanical engineer who regularly performs energy audits or existing building commissioning services to help clients reduce building energy consumption. If the engineer does nothing but perform these services full-time, would his role be regarded as a green job? If the engineer performed these services as a result of stimulus spending, would his occupation then be considered green?

At the very least, I believe that the creation of green jobs must be considered a priority regardless of our inability to agree on a proper definition on this emerging category. 

The green building industry grew by 80 percent in 2008 related to new construction according to leading green expert Jerry Yudelson. Specialized consultants are needed to support that growth, even if it slows significantly in coming years.

Related jobs include sustainability (LEED) and energy consultants, vendors of environmentally-friendly products and factory workers needed to make those products. It’s important to think about both easily recognizable roles and the support roles that surround them. 

Further, Yudelson concludes that green jobs fall within three major categories:

·     Green building industry

·     Renewable energy industry

·     Efficiency upgrades for existing buildings

It’s still hard to tell which sector will serve as the largest provider of green jobs. Whether from any of the three areas mentioned above or unforeseen sources in the future, it’s important that we work collectively to stimulate our global economy using both sustainable and inventive methods.