From Shortages
to Solutions
Training local workers and supporting migrants to fill the green jobs gap could contribute $280 billion to city economies by 2040.
New research by C40, the Climate Migration Council and the Mayors Migration Council provides first-of-its-kind data on green job shortages in construction, transportation, and waste in 25 cities across seven countries. The research identifies two key policies to avoid the predicted labour shortages: providing skills training for existing local workers and removing the barriers to migrant employment.
Looking at projected workforce demand by 2040, the research finds:
Urban climate action is projected to create 13 million green jobs in cities.
13 million green jobs will be needed by 2040—in the Construction, Transport, and Waste sectors alone—if Climate Action Plans and country-level NDCs are delivered as planned. Green jobs will represent nearly half (43%) of all jobs in the sectors studied.
Between 3 to 6 million additional workers will be needed to meet green job demand.
Growing demand will create unprecedented labour shortages with 3 to 6 million jobs unfilled by 2040. Failing to address these shortages would present a missed opportunity both for workers and local economies, and could stall the green transition.
Labour shortages can be addressed through a two-part solution: training existing workers and supporting migrant workers to access opportunities.
A 50% increase in public investment in training and skills-building could bring down shortages from 6 to 3 million. Yet, training local workers is not enough to close the gap. Barriers need to be removed for migrants to access green jobs and labour pathways.
Filling the green jobs gap could lead to $280 billion in economic growth for cities.
The 25 cities studied could see up to $280B USD in economic growth by 2040 by addressing these labour shortages through a combination of skills training and inclusive immigration policies. This opportunity should not be left on the table.
City Results
Mayor of Bogotá, Carlos Fernando Galán:
“The political significance of both migration and climate action today demands bold, pragmatic, and integrated responses: driving the creation of good green jobs, investing in local skills training, and making opportunities accessible for all residents, including newcomers. This research provides Bogotá with essential evidence, alongside past C40 and MMC studies on our city’s projected climate migration patterns, to plan ahead, harnessing the opportunities that both climate action and migration offer to our city.”
For media inquiries or further information:
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
