Green projects create extra benefits - jobs

Increased investment in clean energy and conservation could do far more than reduce pollution, according to two reports released Thursday.

A combined $150 billion in public and private money could create 1.7 million jobs a year and begin to address ongoing social ills, including unemployment and working poverty. The jobs couldn't be outsourced or exported, would require workers with a range of education levels and would be needed in every community around the country.

They also would pay more than minimum wage.

"Economic opportunity and environmental protection are not only not in conflict but really reinforce one another," said Peter Lehner, executive director of the Natural Resources Defense Council. The New York-based environmental action agency is lobbying Congress to pass legislationthat would penalize industries that pollute beyond certain levels and give credits — which could be traded — to those who don't reach or surpass those levels. The system is called "cap and trade."

Nashville could see $185 million in investments and 10,407 new jobs a year producing windmills, installing solar panels and doing other clean-energy related tasks, according to the reports. Half could go to workers with a high school diploma or less.

Nashville could see $185 million in investments and 10,407 new jobs a year producing windmills, installing solar panels and doing other clean-energy related tasks, according to the reports. Half could go to workers with a high school diploma or less.