We have to realize in every big change, there are winners and losers. Some people will lose their jobs and suffer losses, and they will push back because they are worried about losing their jobsJakarta (ANTARA) - Lack of awareness about threats emanating from climate change and importance of environmental preservation still challenge the development of green growth, Director General of the Global Green Growth Institute Frank Rijsberman said in Jakarta, Thursday.
Citizens of a nation must understand the importance of developing green growth, as it will support policymakers into taking necessary measures and in phases of transitions, Rijsberman added.
Indonesia, in particular, has shown an increasing will and effort to recognize and tackle environmental issues. However, more concrete steps and policy reforms need to be taken, especially those regarding air pollution and land use.
Should policymakers decide to impose reforms, everyone involved would need to have a full understanding of the reason behind such changes.
“We have to realize in every big change, there are winners and losers. Some people will lose their jobs and suffer losses, and they will push back because they are worried about losing their jobs. This is one of the biggest challenges in countries,” he said.
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A study conducted by GGGI revealed that there are more opportunities for green jobs in a green economy, but it does not mean that those who are at risk of losing their ground jobs would not express resistance, said Rijsberman, who was appointed Director General of the institute in 2016.
Therefore, it is important for the government to create awareness among the people and help those who lose out in the transitions, he believed.
There should be efforts to reach out to the public to raise awareness, as well as retrain and find solutions for those who lose their jobs.
The Global Green Growth Institute is an international organization that promotes the development of green growth by working with member countries.
Green growth refers to an economic development approach that simultaneously considers the full range of economic, natural and social values to ensure that the growth is good for the economy, planet and people.
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Reporter: Aria Cindyara
Editor: Sri Haryati
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