Washington state is not addressing the climate crises at a pace science demands, but its active labor movement and climate-friendly policy environment are strengths that can drive meaningful climate action, according to a report released today by the ILR Climate Jobs Institute.

Washington Climate Jobs Roadmap: A Worker-Centered Approach to a Clean Energy Future is the culmination of a two-year process that included interviews with more than 85 labor, environmental and industry leaders and policymakers, educational convenings, and qualitative and quantitative research.

“Our research highlights what Washington workers already know to be true: climate breakdown is real, and it's hitting workers and under-resourced communities first and worst,” said Lara Skinner, executive director of the Climate Jobs Institute. “There is hope, and it relies on labor. “

The report provides 20 recommendations in six areas – energy, low-carbon manufacturing, carbon-free buildings, transportation, resilience and adaptation, and workforce development.

Read the full story on the ILR website.
Julie Greco is a Senior Communications Specialist in the ILR School.