UK Green Jobs Hit 652,100 as Environmental Sector Shows Decade of Growth

The waste management worker clocking in at a Kent recycling centre this morning joins over 650,000 people across Britain whose jobs now fall under the expanding green economy umbrella. Fresh figures from the Office for National Statistics paint a picture of steady environmental employment growth, even as the sector navigates some turbulent waters.

The Numbers Behind the Growth

Britain’s green job market reached 652,100 full-time equivalent positions in 2024, marking a big 27.8% climb from the 510,100 recorded in 2015. But the journey hasn’t been entirely smooth sailing.

The statistics reveal a sector experiencing growing pains. After hitting 639,400 positions in 2022, green employment surged to 690,900 in 2023 before dropping back to this year’s 652,100 figure. That’s nearly 40,000 fewer jobs than last year’s peak.

Waste management dominates the green employment landscape, accounting for 158,400 full-time equivalent positions in 2023 – making it the single largest employer within environmental industries. Energy efficient products and renewable energy sectors follow as the next biggest job creators.

Mixed Signals from the Green Economy

The Low Carbon and Renewable Energy Economy tells a tale of two trends. Employment in this specialist sector fell 4.1% to 304,000 positions in 2024. Yet turnover surged 11.8% to reach £77.0 billion, suggesting businesses are generating more revenue with fewer workers.

An estimated 12% of UK adults reported having at least part of their role classified as a “green job” when surveyed in January 2024. Nearly half of all British employees work in industries responsible for less than 1% of the nation’s total greenhouse gas emissions.

Future Demand on the Horizon

The Climate Change Committee projects significant job creation ahead, estimating between 135,000 to 725,000 new positions could emerge by 2035 as Britain pursues net zero targets. Green Alliance research suggests an additional 120,000 to 160,000 entry-level roles will be needed across power generation, circular economy initiatives, and nature restoration projects.

Government plans aim for roughly 10% average annual job growth in clean energy between 2023 and 2030 through the Clean Energy Jobs Plan.

Key Takeaways

• UK green jobs reached 652,100 full-time equivalents in 2024, up 27.8% since 2015
• Employment dropped from 690,900 in 2023, showing sector volatility despite long-term growth
• Waste management remains the largest green employer with over 158,000 positions

What This Means for Kent Residents

Kent workers and businesses stand to benefit from the expanding green economy, chiefly in waste management, renewable energy, and energy efficiency sectors that are driving employment growth. Local job seekers should consider developing skills in environmental industries, as the Climate Change Committee projects hefty additional hiring through 2035 to meet climate targets. Businesses across the county may find opportunities in the low carbon economy, which generated £77.0 billion in turnover this year despite employment fluctuations.