A Conversation on Green Solutions
As we explore using green jobs to restore and rebuild our communities, Philadelphia is taking an interesting step forward—and creating a model for us all.
The City of Brotherly Love is making news by addressing some of the federal regulatory barriers that slow down green-job development: they have made a proposal to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for an all-green stormwater solution, to mitigate the untreated storm water and sewage that enters their water system when it rains. New York has explored green solutions to encourage the private sector to incorporate green practices; Chicago has studied how addressing climate change issues can generate green jobs. But, as far as we know, only Philadelphia has proposed engaging with the EPA through compliance with the clean water act.
Philadelphia’s proposal holds dual promise: tremendous opportunities for improving the quality of life for communities, and for creating an array of green jobs. It is also frugal: Rather than invest over $10 billion in grey infrastructure, Philadelphia would spend just $1.6 billion to greenscape—creating natural sponges such as street trees, porous pavement, and green roofs.
As cities and states face increasing budget crises, we need cost-effective solutions that create job opportunities. DO: invest in infrastructure that yields multiple benefits. DON’T: build yet another expensive sewage treatment facility that only contributes to a fiscally-failing and pollution-based system.
Whether folks are transitioning into new jobs or knocking down traditional barriers to employment, the green economy holds promise for us all.
- Miquela Craytor, Executive Director Sustainable South Bronx