Employment Creation Potential Of Circular Economy: Green Employment In The Energy Sector

The circular economy encompasses the fundamental stages of the economy, including production, consumption, investment, and employment, with the aim of reducing ecological scarcities and environmental problems while increasing welfare and social equality. It also aims to enhance resource efficiency by minimizing raw material usage through waste management. Departing from traditional consumption patterns, the circular economy revolves around the concept of consume-transform rather than consume-dispose, thereby minimizing natural resource degradation while fostering growth. The objective of this study is to examine the employment changes that will occur in sectors representing the circular economy, focusing on the renewable energy sector. The study discusses the employment opportunities created by the equipment, hardware, and technical personnel required for renewable energy production globally and in Turkey, as well as the potential effects of transition processes on women and youth in the context of the circular economy. By 2030, it is anticipated that there will be a net increase of 10.2 million jobs in the clean energy sector worldwide compared to 2022, with Turkey expecting a net increase of 300,000 jobs in the clean energy sector by 2030. Turkey is aware of the impact of clean energy usage on employment, current account deficit, and energy security, and thus incorporates renewable energy into its development plans. Therefore, while shaping development plans, it is extremely important to consider the impact of clean energy utilisation on current account deficit and energy security as well as employment.