New research shows potential for thousands of green jobs in the Heads of the Valleys

17 January 2011

More than 3,000 new jobs could be created in the south Wales Heads of the Valleys through improvements in recycling and waste management, home energy efficiency and small-scale renewable energy development. This is the conclusion of new research [1] from Friends of the Earth published today (Monday 17 January).

The report, 'Green Jobs in the Heads of the Valleys', shows the massive boost to jobs that developing the green economy could bring to an area currently suffering from one of the highest unemployment rates in the country.

Haf Elgar of Friends of the Earth Cymru said:

"This new research is great news for the Heads of the Valleys and all of Wales. Green jobs are vitally important for the recovery of our economy, and could bring considerable local employment to areas that really need an economic boost."

"A green economy is the future for Merthyr and the Heads of the Valleys, rather than allowing the area to become a magnet for dirty industries and environmental degradation."

Julian Kirby, waste campaigner for Friends of the Earth, said:

"The Assembly's commitment to recycle 70% of Wales' waste is a great opportunity to develop thriving green waste industries. As well as saving valuable resources, this would create thousands of jobs locally and considerably strengthen the economy.

"But building massive new incinerators will undermine our efforts to increase recycling. Recycling creates 10 times as many jobs as incineration - this report shows that with the right political support the Heads of the Valleys could have a green, successful and thriving future."

NOTES

1. Friends of the Earth's Green Jobs in the Heads of the Valleys report

2. Friends of the Earth's More jobs, less waste report

For further information, please contact Friends of the Earth Cymru on 029 2022 9577