In a groundbreaking report released by the OECD Development Centre, Southeast Asia stands on the brink of an economic and ecological transformation that promises to reshape the region into a model of green prosperity. The study, titled “Towards Greener and More Inclusive Societies in Southeast Asia,” sheds light on a path forward that is not only environmentally sustainable but also a potent catalyst for job creation and economic resilience.
With a third of its workforce reliant on the earth’s bounty, Southeast Asia’s leap towards eco-friendly agriculture and renewable energy heralds a bright future. For example, Indonesia, a titan in coal exportation, could see over a million new jobs with a shift towards cleaner energy. The agriculture sector is no less promising, where converting just 5% of rice farmlands to organic practices could multiply job opportunities 5.4-fold compared to conventional farming.
The necessity of this transition cannot be overstated. More than 100 million Southeast Asians work in jobs intimately connected to the environment. However, the spectre of environmental degradation, exacerbated by a 15% decrease in forest area since 1990 and a heavy reliance on fossil fuels, looms large. The OECD report highlights the urgency of preserving these jobs and expanding employment through sustainable practices.
As OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann emphasizes, a critical aspect of this transition is the support for workers transitioning from fossil fuel sectors and those in informal nature-related jobs. With 90% of agriculture, mining, and waste management workers in the informal sector, social protection and retraining are paramount for a fair and effective transition.
The report delineates a tripartite strategy for success: bolstering social safety nets, fostering local economic diversification, and anticipating the employment impacts of a green transition with appropriate skills training and market adaptation. Such measures aim to protect vulnerable populations while harnessing the green transition’s potential for economic growth and improved living standards.
Southeast Asia’s green revolution is not just about jobs or economic metrics; it’s a comprehensive reimagining of society’s relationship with nature. It’s about creating a sustainable, inclusive future where economic growth and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. This report from the OECD Development Centre is not just a roadmap for the region but a beacon for the world, demonstrating that with the right policies and investments, the transition to a green economy can be a powerful engine for development and prosperity.
The OECD’s commitment to supporting Southeast Asia in this transformative journey underscores the global importance of regional successes in sustainable development. As Southeast Asia navigates this green transition, the lessons learned, and milestones achieved will undoubtedly offer valuable insights for other regions grappling with similar environmental and economic challenges.
For more insights and in-depth analysis, the OECD’s work on Southeast Asia offers a treasure trove of information for policymakers, stakeholders, and anyone interested in the nexus of environmental sustainability and economic vitality.
Written by: Supaporn Pholrach
