The nation is gearing up to deploy 9,000 individuals to initiate the restoration of landscapes, installation of solar panels, and other initiatives to push the country toward a more sustainable future.
The inaugural members of the American Climate Corps were sworn in on Tuesday during a virtual event hosted by the White House. This marks a significant milestone in President Biden’s ambitious climate agenda. The program, modeled after the Climate Conservation Corps from the New Deal era, aims to engage in environmental projects, much like its predecessor that employed millions during the Great Depression.
During the ceremony, the first cohort of corps members pledged to work for the sake of the nation, the planet, and all its inhabitants, striving towards a brighter future.
Although the American Climate Corps was one of President Biden’s early announcements, it took time to secure funding and launch the initiative. With over 20,000 young individuals expected to join in the first year, the program offers various job openings with pay ranging from $11 to $28 per hour, depending on location and experience.
The administration is presenting the corps as an opportunity for young people to kickstart careers in the green sector. In a move to address the country’s need for skilled workers in electrification efforts, the White House partnered with TradesFutures, a nonprofit construction company. Corps members will also be placed in energy communities to aid in environmental projects.
Ali Zaidi, White House climate advisor, stated, “The president’s American Climate Corps is providing thousands of young Americans with the skills and experience to advance a more sustainable, just tomorrow.”
The launch of the American Climate Corps is likely to resonate with young voters, a key demographic that played a crucial role in Biden’s election victory. Surveys indicate strong support for climate action among younger Americans, highlighting the importance of initiatives like the American Climate Corps.
The ceremony entailed a pledge crafted by Barbara Kingsolver, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author known for exploring climate change themes. She described the climate corps as one of the most inspiring initiatives in the country and emphasized the importance of channeling worries about climate change into meaningful action.
