Repower America with Green Education, Green Jobs, Green Schools

National Wildlife Federation has joined environmental and conservation
organizations in recommending a green stimulus proposal that would repower
America. The proposal would jumpstart our economy by creating as many as 3.6
million jobs, reducing pollution, protecting public health and safety, and
restoring the environment.

“Clean energy investments create jobs,
rebuild and refuel our economy, and reduce the pollution that is accelerating
global warming,” said Larry Schweiger, President & CEO, National Wildlife
Federation. “The investments in clean energy that forestall a climate meltdown
will aid our recovery from the global financial meltdown.”

A key area for
investment is in education and training, because educational services generate
23.1 jobs per $1 million in spending, nearly five times more jobs created than
oil and natural gas sector spending.

“Investing in people through green
education and training is essential to get our economy back on track,” said
Kevin Coyle, Vice President of Education and Training, National Wildlife
Federation. “That’s why the environmental community is urging a $9.2 billion
investment for green schools and colleges, environmental education and green job
training in America’s classrooms to create 289,000 jobs in the short-term and
ensure long-term economic growth.”
             
The
agriculture sector presents another opportunity to create “clean-tech” jobs,
especially in rural areas. The Food, Conservation
and Energy Act of 2008 significantly expanded funding for USDA energy
programs, including renewable energy systems, energy efficiency improvements,
and the development of next generation feedstocks. Full funding of these
programs and more could help to launch thousands of jobs.

“While
frequently among the first programs to be cut in tough economic times,
investments in USDA energy programs are critical to launching thousands of new
jobs in our rural communities. Investing in sustainable next-generation
biofuels, renewable energy, and energy efficiency will recharge America’s rural
economy and restore the environment,” said Julie Sibbing, Director of Global
Warming and Agriculture, National Wildlife Federation.