Sustainable infrastructure isn’t just a feel-good option.

Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) is one key example of how sustainability can create a real economic impact.

The Sustainable Business Network (SBN) released a new report, Green Stormwater Infrastructure, a tool for Economic Recovery & Growth in Pennsylvania. According to the report:

• There are 34,000 GSI workers across Pennsylvania. (To put this in perspective, this is greater than the number of middle school teachers.) The greater Philadelphia region has over 10,300 workers.
• GSI jobs have grown at a rate of 9.2%, compared to a statewide job growth rate of 6.3% from 2011 to 2019.
• Over half of GSI jobs earn over $15/hour.

Green Stormwater Infrastructure is good for workers, local businesses, communities, water quality, and equity. However, there is an $8.4 billion dollar funding gap in Pennsylvania over the next 10 years. Only 10% of the required investment currently exists, of $900 million.

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Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake. View all posts by Julie Hancher