The North of England is set to enjoy a boom in the number of green jobs over the next 12 years, thanks to the growth of low-carbon industries such as offshore wind energy.
According to a new report from the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), some 46,000 new green jobs could be created in the region by 2030.
Traditionally the center of energy production for England, the North is suffering from the closure of coal mines and coal-fired power stations as the UK’s energy system switches to greener fuels. IPPR predicts 28,000 workers in the North’s fossil fuel sector will lose their jobs by 2030 as a result.
Region’s Fast Growing Green Industry Hub
But the region is also fast-emerging as a hub for new green industries, providing 48 per cent of the UK’s renewable electricity between 2005 and 2014.
Provided the green growth opportunity is distributed around the UK fairly, with training and investment available for Northern workers to transition from high carbon to low carbon sectors, the region could thrive as part of a green economy, IPPR’s research concludes.
“This report highlights the importance of the energy sector for the North’s future prosperity, and for the first time makes the connection between economic opportunity and economic justice by calling for a ‘just transition’,” said Sarah Longlands, director of IPPR North.
“The benefits of the energy sector in the North will only be fully realized if the people who are already working in the industry are given the time, skills and support which enables them to make the most of new opportunities in low carbon energy.”
Good News for Those Looking for Jobs
This is terrific news for those who have recently been laid off or lost their traditional jobs. To locate a green job in your area, you just have to google. There are lots of them available online on specialized websites.
[via Business Green]
