As ecological and economic climate challenges become increasingly more serious, we there is a growing need to meet a coming tsunami of opportunity with a trained work force.
“President-elect Biden has appointed John Kerry as his special presidential envoy for climate, which underscores his commitment for tackling the global crisis of climate change,” says THI CEO Michael Sprague. “Serious effects of climate change include bigger storm systems, and consequently, more intense flooding in some areas, with longer droughts and major water shortages in other places. Healthy streams and wetlands and their associated vegetation can help mitigate extremes. We need a climate-ready workforce to tackle these issues.”
Is a new “Climate Corps” the answer to these challenges?
The Adventure Journal recently published an article titled, “How a Climate Corps Could Put Youth to Work in Greening America,” encouraging the creation of a “climate corps” much like the Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the current youth-oriented AmeriCorps.
The author envisions an even more inclusive, and highly-focused youth climate corps that would “give priority to applicants from marginalized groups that face discrimination in the job market, such as women, LGBTQ+ people or the formerly incarcerated.” The proposed an organization would address climate challenges, pay a livable wage, and give free education awards for the duration of service.
