Environmentalists claim that 70,000 “green” jobs could be created if local councils stepped up their efforts to cut climate emissions from buildings.
According to Friends of the Earth, CO2 emissions could be cut by 40% by 2020 if local authorities insulated homes and businesses and installed green energy technology in authority buildings.
It said that new jobs for loft laggers, builders, electricians and administrative posts could be created across England and Wales by the end of the next decade, as well as more administrative roles.
In response to research from climate advisers Carbon Descent, Friends of the Earth has launched a new campaign urging local councils to commit to cutting emissions in their area.
The group believes it is necessary for wealthy countries like the UK to prevent the damaging effects of climate change both here and for the world’s poorest people.
Friends of the Earth executive director Andy Atkins said: “Local councils must play a big part in slashing the UK’s carbon emissions to help avoid runaway climate change.
“With the economy in such a sorry state at the moment, our towns, cities and villages could really use a boost from new green jobs.”
