Discussion Question 7

Van Jones' view of green jobs is a positive one. From Thomas Friedman's point of view, Jones is trying to raise awareness for environmental issues, help to clean up the streets in big cities by providing work for young African Americans and jump-start a shrinking economy.

I agree with Jones in his article about the U.S. bailout where he implied that the U.S. government can stop our environmental crisis if we take half of the money from the Wall Street bailout ($350 million) and aggressively move toward clean energy sources. It will be expensive up front but it will save billions of dollars down the road. With the economy in a recession, the shift now can create jobs while waiting until the economy is stronger could mean another downturn. Once the economy starts getting stronger, people will not want to sidetrack it to save the environment. They will finally be making money again, why would they want to risk losing it again?

It is important to note how Jones links his green collar job campaign with economic strength. For many people, the economy is a huge issue that affects their whole life. Maybe they lost their job or are in danger of losing it. Linking the two issues is important because these people hear that there is a way to economic success and they will pay attention. While this may be their main focus, they cannot help but pay attention and see the importance of the environment as well.