Can green jobs rebuild the economy?

Industry body the Chartered Institute of Wastes Managementsaid the paper, released 'Resource Security: Growth and jobs from the waste industries', puts an emphasis on job creation.

Labour said environmental businesses have a 'key role to play' in helping to rebuild the economy.

Further development of the waste industry is also cited as vital if Britain is to achieve its green targets, and Labour have placed an emphasis on the need to improve packaging and design, as well as the necessity of becoming a world leader in waste management technologies.

CIWMchief executive Steve Lee said: "Much of this document echoes CIWM's vision for managing our wastes as a resource.

“Our industry is relatively recession-proof, but, much more importantly, possesses the potential for green growth and allows for resource efficiency in other industries, for local authorities and for communities.

"That spark needs to be fanned by Government by assisting in the expansion of infrastructure, services, skills and awareness through policy and active leadership.

"However, a policy review can only do so much, and the real test will come should Labour come to power in the next election."

The policy paper said:

"To forge one nation, we need every part of our economy working to create a Britain where everyone has a stake.

"The field of waste and resources can play its part – fostering vocational qualifications and job growth in every region of the UK.

"We believe an advanced waste strategy can play a vital role in securing the economic recovery, creating manufacturing jobs and laying the foundations for sustainable growth.

"The last Labour Government transformed this nation’s relationship to municipal waste. We quadrupled household recycling, introduced measures to divert waste from landfill and secured capital investment in new technologies.

"Under the current Government, progress has stalled. The 2011 Waste Review was a missed opportunity to drive innovation and boost investor confidence. Meanwhile, in Wales, Labour in government is demonstrating that political action can drive up standards and create jobs."