“Everybody wants to be green,” exclaims one contractor who found new life in the “green” construction business. “It’s a great selling feature for any business.” 2 But what actually qualifies as a “green” job? As sustainability becomes a priority for consumers, communities, and investors, the definition is in question.

The Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) defines green jobs as those that meet the need for environmentally responsible production and work processes and the development of green goods and services. This includes “reducing pollution or waste, reducing energy usage, and reducing use of limited natural resources.”Examples include jobs that involve: reducing pollution or waste, reducing energy usage, reducing use of limited natural resources, protecting wildlife or ecosystems, lowering carbon emissions, and developing alternative energy. In a recent survey, SHRM found that 81 percent of responding companies were adding green duties to existing positions, but only 23 percent were adding completely new green positions. You’ ve probably noticed consumer sentiment moving toward greener alternatives when they spend their “green.” Businesses have noticed, too. Starbucks is rewarding coffee farmers who use environmentally and socially sound growing practices, and McDonald’s serves “Rainforest Alliance‐certified” coffee and promotes sustainable fishing.

Ethical questions: 

How far can employers stretch the “green jobs” label before it loses legitimacy? Does Starbucks or McDonald’s policy of rewarding their coffee suppliers who use sustainable growing practices mean that they are green employers? How “green” do they need to be? Is the SHRM definition adequate?