Green Jobs Now! Campaign Promotes "Home Energy Makeovers"

Paint it, solarize it, weatherize it, build it greener and better: on September 27th, as part of a national day of action for the Green Jobs Now! campaign – which includes hundreds of grassroots events across the United States – one resident of Landover Hills, Maryland is receiving a “home energy makeover” to highlight the economic benefits of “going green” for the average homeowner – as well as mobilizing political support to create more so-called “green-collar” jobs.

You might have heard the term “green-collar jobs” already – it’s part of a growing, new economy shifting towards energy efficiency, biofuels, conservation, greener technologies and urban planning policies in local communities across the United States. The idea is that these jobs not only help the environment, but they also boost the economy because there is the potential for tens (or even hundreds of thousands) of jobs that cannot be outsourced – providing real opportunities for individuals, cities and states for job growth.

But many advocates for the new green economy point out that it’s important that everyone realizes they are able to benefit from this shift, regardless of income, ethnicity or creed.

Makeover will show that green is for all
“We’re not going to solve global warming just with expensive consumer choices like buying hybrid cars and shopping for organic food. People need to realize that you don’t have to be white or wealthy to benefit from going green,” says Van Jones, founder of Green for All, a national campaign aiming to bring green-collar jobs to urban areas. The group is also one of the sponsors for the Landover Hills makeover project, which hopes to overcome the misconception that going green is only for those who can afford it.

"This home energy efficiency makeover highlights the affordable things that homeowners can do to increase their home's energy efficiency and save money. It creates an opportunity for people to learn some of the skills associated with green jobs,” says Lisa Lincoln, co-chair of the Progressive Cheverly Environmental Committee, another of the project organizers. “And, it invites people of all colors, economic levels, faiths, and skill levels in Prince George's County to participate in a movement that will create jobs, rebuild communities, protect our environment for future generations, and give people hope."