What Fad?

Unemployment continues to rise, right? Not if you're looking for a green job!

There's been lots of talk the last few weeks about the national rate of unemployment, but we've got some good news...According to Pew Research, jobs in the green sector increased 9.1% from 1998 to 2007. This is my blog post for this week for 2 reasons. One, as a resource for those who are unemployed or know someone who is. And two, because I think this data fights the myth that 'Going Green' is just a fad.

First of all, here' s the link to help you start or advance a sustainable career (as in one that helps the environment and lasts for a long time, haha): Get a Green Job!

The site is one of many but I really like it because it's a blog...that means there are hundreds of jumping off points for that one location. Plus it's written by someone who is in the business, living the life you may want to have.

The trend of green business and careers in the field is no fad. Don't believe us? Follow this link to an Associated Press article with a ton of hard facts. Here are a few of my favorites about the troubled state of Michigan:

- "Michigan, which has lost hundreds of thousands of manufacturing jobs, saw a 10.7 percent increase in clean energy jobs from 1998 to 2007."
- "Pew counted 22,674 clean energy jobs in Michigan in 2007. To put that into perspective, Michigan lost 38,400 jobs in April alone."

Pursuing green solutions and alternatives is not just the right thing to do anymore. It's the smart thing. Business leaders are grabbing the idea by the horns and not only running, but making money as they go.

Just think about the last time you sat down to watch an hour or so of television. Last night's Biggest Loser episode had several promos for green products to go with NBC Universal's 'Green Week'. KOMU is beginning its own green segment. Even Sesame Street is celebrating 40 years by starting a two year campaign to educate kids about the world around them.

If Elmo and Big Bird can do it, so can we.

Emily