THE creation of green jobs will increase as more industries become more environmentally conscious, says Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations Jone Usamate.

He said the ministry was creating a policy that encouraged the formation of green jobs.

“Today, we talk about being environmentally friendly,” he said.

“Climate change is a very real threat and we are living now in a more environment conscious society, and because of that, businesses as well are starting to move away from economic opportunities that threaten the environment.

“Businesses are becoming more ‘sustainability conscious’ and they are moving to renewable energy options.

“All of these are new sectors and they require new skills. So there will be new kinds of jobs created. These jobs are green jobs. As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, there will be more positions that focus on that so the ministry wants to encourage that.

“There is going to be demand in that market.” According to the ministry, a total of 10 policy options were being drafted to form the National Employment Policy for employers, workers, students, teachers and key stakeholders and public.

One such policy was the promotion of green jobs and green skills, which identified employment opportunities for the future.

Mr Usamate said for older industries such as tourism, operators were adapting to being environmentally friendly.

“For instance, the hotels are beginning to use solar power and moving towards renewable energy. When they have solar power, they will need a skilled person who is trained to handle solar panels and its maintenance. Basically, a green job will be created when more businesses and employers start becoming environmentally conscious.”