American Climate Corps – Promoting Youth Employment in Green Industries

An updated version of the CCC is coming, the American Climate Corps. In the coming weeks, 9,000 people will start working to restore landscapes, install solar panels, and take other steps to help the country move toward a cleaner, greener future. The first group of these workers joined the American Climate Corps in a virtual event hosted by the White House.

Modern Version of the Civilian Conservation Corps

The American Climate Corps is like the Civilian Conservation Corps from the New Deal era. It employed 3 million men to plant trees and build national parks. President Joe Biden announced this program shortly after taking office in 2021. Although it’s taken time to secure funding and launch the program, the White House projects that more than 20,000 young people are expected to join in its first year.

The program offers various job opportunities, with pay ranging from $11 to $28 an hour. Depending on the location and required experience. New job openings will be available on the American Climate Corps job site in the coming months.

Promoting Green Industry Careers

The corps is seen as a way for young people to start careers in green industries. The White House has partnered with TradesFutures, a nonprofit construction company, to help fill the shortage of skilled workers needed for green projects. Members will work in “energy communities,” such as former coal-mining towns, to help with environmental projects.

Skills for a Greener Future

White House climate advisor Ali Zaidi highlighted that the corps would provide young Americans with life skills and experience. These green industry jobs will support a sustainable and greener future but also offer practical opportunities for professional growth. Specifically, members will work on a range of diverse projects. These projects include managing forests in the Pacific Northwest, deploying clean energy in the Southwest, and promoting sustainable farming in the country’s heartland.

The launch of the American Climate Corps is likely to appeal to young voters, who were crucial to Biden’s 2020 election victory. Surveys show that over three-quarters of young Americans want the U.S. to take steps to address climate change.

The commitment pledge taken by corps members was written by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Barbara Kingsolver. She emphasized the importance of turning concern into action. She believes the American Climate Corps is an exciting development and encourages young people to channel their concerns about climate change into meaningful work.

EcoCentricNow Advocates for A Greener Future

EcoCentricNow LLC (ECN) distributes interior and exterior LED property lighting, handheld lighting, and an assortment of batteries. ECN’s mission is to promote environmental stewardship by distributing well designed, long lasting, energy efficient LED lighting products and supplies that foster ecological sustainability and human wellbeing

Reference
The American Climate Corps officially kicks off, Grist, Kate Yoder
Biden Kicks Off Earth Week with Solar Funding, Expanding Climate Corps, E&E News, Jean Chemnick