Clean energy jobs aren't just about slapping solar panels on building, according to this op-ed. Building the green economy relies on building our own understanding of the interplay of natural systems.
David Schejbal, a dean at the University of Wisconsin Extension, argues that we need to think more broadly about what it means to be green, and gather a better understanding about how to integrate environmentally conscious thinking into our daily processes.
"Understanding the intersections of the systems at work - natural systems, social systems and business systems - is critical to every aspect of how we live and work. For instance, if we recognize and understand that the Earth is a closed system, then we must look at manufacturing very differently; we must look at the making of stuff (whatever it might be) as a loop, not as a line.
...Green economy skills - or, more appropriately, the green economy literacy - must include this 'systems understanding' of the world in which we live. As we grapple with the consequences of our past consumptive practices and try to adjust our future practices to be less destructive of our children's futures, we have to understand how the world - in the fullest meaning of that term - works."
FULL STORY: When it comes to green jobs, let's debate the right issue
America’s 10 ‘Greenest’ Cities
A new analysis ranks cities based on their environmental quality, energy consumption and production, transportation, density, and other factors.
Report: Cities’ Climate Plans Fail to Include Workforce Development
While a few cities have detailed goals and investment strategies for building their green workforce, most U.S. cities fail to address the need for the training and education of a new generation of workers.
Navajo Leaders: Renewable Energy Transition Must Account for Equity
Native American leaders in the Southwest want to ensure their communities have a voice, and an opportunity for well-paying jobs, in renewable energy projects on Native land.
Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?
King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.
Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.
Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
planning NEXT
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie