Answer given by Mr Schmit on behalf of the European Commission

Climate policies are projected to create 1.2 million jobs in the EU by 2030 and 2 million by 2050 compared to a baseline scenario.[1] In particular, agriculture, forestry and construction combined could gain up to 2.4 million additional jobs by 2050.[2]

At the same time, the impact assessment accompanying the 2030 Climate Target Plan communication shows that some declining sectors are regionally concentrated, requiring labour reallocation in the local economy. A prime example is the coal sector with an estimated 237 000 jobs in 2018, where dramatic job losses are expected in the next decade.

A number of instruments are available to help safeguard a just transition towards climate neutrality. Workers dependent on work in energy-intensive sectors may benefit from support by EU instruments such as the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) in accordance with the national programming framework. They could also benefit from support from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for displaced workers (EGF).

The Just Transition Mechanism[3] will help alleviate the cost of the transition by revitalising worst-affected regions through territorial just transition plans. The Just Transition Platform will enable exchanges on best practices across affected sectors.[4]

In line with the European Skills Agenda[5], re‐ and upskilling efforts are essential for a just transition and inclusive growth. Member States are encouraged to make full use of EU funding, notably through the ESF+ and the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF)[6].

Lastly, several initiatives of the European Green Deal will contribute to direct job creation, including at the local level. For example, the Renovation Wave initiative is projected to create 160 000 additional green construction-sector jobs.

• [1] Employment and Social Developments in Europe, Annual review, 2019
• [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52020SC0176
• [3] https://ec.europa.eu/info/strategy/priorities-2019-2024/european-green-deal/actions-being-taken-eu/just-transition-mechanism_en
• [4] https://ec.europa.eu/info/strategy/priorities-2019-2024/european-green-deal/actions-being-taken-eu/just-transition-mechanism/just-transition-platform_en
• [5]  COM/2020/274 final .
• [6]  https://ec.europa.eu/info/business-economy-euro/recovery-coronavirus/recovery-and-resilience-facility_en e