30 Jun Green Jobs Revolution: Can Sustainability Policies Drive Employment Growth without Jeopardizing Business Viability in the EU?

Sofia Damásio

School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs, IE University, Madrid, Spain.

Bachelor’s in International Relations.

E-mail: sdamasio.ieu2022@student.ie.edu.

Abstract

This paper explores whether sustainability policies under the European Green Deal can stimulate green job creation without undermining business viability in Southern Europe. Focusing on countries with high unemployment, Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Greece, it examines the labor market potential of renewable energy projects such as GreenH2Atlantic, RESTORE, HYPERGRYD, and Reffect Africa. These initiatives show promise in job creation across construction, software development, biomass waste technology, and more. However, challenges persist: Southern Europe faces a significant green skills gap, while businesses, especially SMEs, struggle with high initial costs, complex regulatory compliance, and global competitive pressures. The study evaluates how EU investments, funding mechanisms, and market trends intersect with business constraints and labor shortages. It proposes policy suggestions including regional green energy hubs, tax incentives for upskilling, SME support platforms, and flexible regulatory frameworks. The conclusion argues for a balanced approach that integrates green employment growth with realistic support mechanisms to ensure both environmental and economic sustainability in the region.

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Keywords: European Green Deal, Green Jobs, Business Viability, Southern Europe, Renewable Energy Projects.