Job Implications in Los Angeles’ Green Building Sector: An Analysis of Workforce Development Opportunities in the Green Building Sector; and Recommendations for Integrating Low Income Communities of Color with Green Building Sector Jobs

Authors:  Sigalle Rosner

Date: May 1, 2006

Project: Job Implications in Los Angeles’ Green Building Sector: An Analysis of Workforce Development Opportunities in the Green Building Sector; and Recommendations for Integrating Low Income Communities of Color with Green Building Sector Jobs

The green building movement in Los Angeles is gathering momentum. Pushed by policy and justified by volatile energy costs and environmental degradation concerns, green buildings are making an impact in Los Angeles. Their impact is evident in energy savings, water conservation, waste reduction, and increased demand for green building materials. However, the green building movement’s social implications are less known. The purpose of this report is to explore the movement’s social implications, specifically, the potential for workforce development in low-income communities of color for the green building industry.

The objectives of this report are to:

1. Review the green building industry;

2. Identify potential jobs in the green building sector; and

3. Offer recommendations for workforce development