Not only can green cars reduce dependence on oil, but they could also spawn more job opportunities than “business-as-usual”.
That’s the verdict of a new report prepared for the Natural Resources Defence Council, United Auto Workers, and Centre for American Progress by Alan Baum of The Planning Edge and Daniel Luria of the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Centre.
Their study offers insights into the nature of clean energy jobs in the automotive sector. This includes the statement that saving oil will directly create jobs as it will drive demand for additional manufactured components. According to the study, a move to enhance fuel economy means greater labour content per vehicle and higher employment across the fleet. It will also usher in new investment in a host of incremental improvements in internal combustion engines, as well as in entirely new systems such as hybrid drive trains.
In addition, the study suggests that while it is certain the production of new technology will create demand for workers, where those jobs will be located is one of the key issues. It is predicted that around 190,000 jobs will be created by 2020 but the number of those situated in America could vary. The study outlines that as little as 50,000 jobs might go to American workers, or, if incentives are introduced, as many as 150,000 US workers could find employment.
Furthermore, the study says that comprehensive energy and climate legislation will ensure sustained reductions in carbon emissions and oil use while still stimulating economic growth. This will provide a steady revenue source for long-term economic and environmental gains.
