Interest in green construction and environmental friendliness has increased in the construction industry, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The data showed a substantial increase in the number of employees working in green construction between 2010 and 2011. The number of employees in green construction rose from 7.0 to 8.9 percent as sustainable features in commercial and residential construction become more attractive to owners, builders, and buyers.
The increase in green construction services occurred even as overall construction employment decreased by nearly 15,000 jobs during that same period.
The largest number of green construction employees was added in California, with more than 54,000 workers in that state. In contrast, the number of workers in this segment of the construction industry was 37,180 in 2010. The California statistics also represent an increase from 6.7 to 9.7 percent of all construction jobs considered “green” in that state.
Texas also showed significant increases in green construction employment from 2010 to 2011. The state showed 46,599 workers in that category, representing an increase from 7.1 to 8.1 percent of total numbers of employees working in the green construction segment.
Other states with large numbers of green construction employees as of 2011 include New York, Florida, Ohio and Illinois.
More interest in green construction indicates that contractors, builders, designers and other construction industry professionals would benefit from adding green skills and services to their offerings.
As overall interest in energy efficiency and energy conservation practices continues to grow, the likelihood is that this interest will also be reflected in residential and commercial construction.
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