World · Singapore Bureau
Green jobs remain rare across ASEAN region, with Singapore lagging
Fewer than one per cent of workers in ASEAN nations are employed in environmentally sustainable roles, according to a new report. In Singapore, green job opportunities are concentrated in construction and utilities sectors.
LSN Singapore ·
A regional analysis has revealed that the green jobs sector remains underdeveloped across ASEAN economies, with employment in environmental roles representing a fraction of the total workforce. The finding underscores a significant gap between regional sustainability ambitions and labour market realities, as Southeast Asian nations grapple with transitioning to greener economic models.
Singapore, despite its reputation as a developed economy with strong environmental policies, is not exempt from this trend. The city-state's green employment opportunities are primarily found within construction and utilities industries, sectors that have begun integrating sustainable practices in response to climate commitments and building standards.
The report's findings suggest that ASEAN countries face considerable challenges in scaling green employment across their economies. Expanding such opportunities will likely require coordinated efforts in workforce training, investment in renewable energy infrastructure, and policy frameworks that incentivise businesses to adopt environmentally sustainable operations.
As ASEAN nations pursue climate targets and sustainable development goals, the low proportion of workers in green roles indicates substantial room for growth in this emerging employment sector across the region.