Green Collar Jobs Initiative (continued) 

 

Mayor Adrian M. Fenty is establishing a Green Collar Jobs Advisory Council to provide information, advice, and recommendations on issues related to the development of green collar jobs and enterprises. This advisory body will include private sector entities, non-profits, and government agencies.

 

A goal of this effort is to link existing small and local businesses with this growing market, meeting the demand for these services through District Certified Business Enterprises and First Source contracting.  Additionally, there is an opportunity to provide career ladders for individuals, transforming traditionally low-skilled workers into more highly-skilled employees on a specific career path.

 

Other important component of the initiative is to re-connect youth to environmental employment opportunities. Working through public-private partnerships, the Green Collar Jobs Initiative will improve access to quality workforce development training and job placement for District residents who face some of the greatest challenges to full, steady employment.

 

Lastly, the District is setting an example for the entire region by greening its own buildings. For example, the District, through the apprenticeship program of DC Greenworks, recently installed green roofs on two downtown District government office buildings, the Reeves Center and One Judiciary Square. The new roofs, planted with low maintenance, native species, will help reduce energy costs and reduce storm water run off into the District’s rivers. As a result of this project, twelve young adults received training in horticulture and green roof installation through DC Greenworks.

 

For more information about this intiative, please contact Howard Ways, DC Office of Planning at 202-442-7600 or Margaret Wright, Department of Employment Services at 202-724-7000.