Research Projects

Green-collar jobs: Developing a green industrial strategy for the UK

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Contact Email: k.lawton@ippr.org

Introduction

New: Read our report on jobs and the low-carbon transition, published in November 2009.

Read ippr's submission to the Environmental Audit Committee's inquiry into green jobs and skills.

‘Green-collar jobs’ are well-paid, career track jobs that contribute directly to preserving or enhancing environmental quality. They range from low-skill, entry-level positions to high-skill, higher-paid jobs, but include opportunities for advancement in both skills and wages.

This project looked at the impact of decarbonising the UK economy on jobs and employment. Our report, published in November 2009, asked whether new, so-called ‘green’ jobs will also be decent jobs and who will benefit from these new opportunities. We conclude that Government needs to develop a more strategic approach in identifying potential areas for growth and in ensuring that appropriate low-carbon skills and training provision is in place. Government must also ensure that action is taken to minimise the risks presented by the low-carbon transition to existing jobs.

Previous work in this area

In April 2009 we called for the UK to act swiftly to develop offshore wind. Without a rapid expansion of offshore wind capacity the UK will struggle to achieve its legally-binding target of 15% of renewable energy from renewable sources by 2020. Our report also said that without greater government support, the opportunity to create up to 70,000 long-term jobs in parts of the country where they are needed, and its associated export potential, will be lost.

In July 2008, we held a successful seminar on this subject in partnership with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung. A recording of the event can be downloaded here.

Publications

Green Jobs:
Prospects for creating jobs from offshore wind in the UK

This report compiles evidence from industry players abroad and in the UK of the kind of interventions needed to deliver a successful offshore wind industry in Britain.

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