A recent GreenBiz survey of more than 600 companies found that these organizations are increasing their hiring of environmental and sustainability professionals. Environmental, health and safety (EHS) departments at large corporations are also increasing spending. GreenBiz analysts feel that these trends are potential indicators that the green economy may be outpacing indicators of the overall recovery.
In spite of rising unemployment nationwide across industry sectors. The number of large companies citing open positions and plans to increase staff doubled from 8 percent in late 2008 to 17 percent. The percentage of companies reporting reassigned or eliminated headcount for environmental, health and safety or sustainability positions was low. There was a decrease in this category from 6 percent to 5 percent.
EHS spending has remained static or increased, with over 75% of companies falling in that category. The number of respondents reporting increased EHS spending rose from 28 percent in late 2008 to 41 percent. However, only one-third of the companies that reported an increased EHS also experienced an increase in head count. Greenbiz analysts feel these numbers could be a sign of stability.
The economic downturn has had a significant impact on the environmental priorities of these organizations. Energy efficiency ranks as the top priority with these businesses (43 percent). Respondents also indicated that the anticipated climate legislation in congress, as well as company leading has an increased impact on company approaches toward environmental issues. Green product development also stood out as a priority with more than 80 percent of companies have indicated that their investments will be either greater than or equal to last year.
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