The UNEP (2008) green jobs report estimated that globally, some 300,000 workers are employed in wind power and perhaps 170,000 in solar photovoltaic (PV). More than 600,000 people are employed in the solar thermal sector. Overall global (selected countries) number of people presently employed in the renewable energy sector runs to about 2.3 million. The key sub-themes potentials for the energy supply include solar water heaters, grid- connected solar power, and utility-scale wind power and energy efficiency. The renewable energy potential size alone is estimated at R10 billion with the potential of 30 000 jobs in 2013.

Public and commercial buildings are substantial consumers of energy and water. The activities inside such buildings generate large volumes of waste. The National Building Regulations are currently being reviewed to improve energy efficiency in all categories of buildings.

With the benefits that includes health and pollution management, the waste collection, disposal & storage potential size is estimated at R22-R36 billion with the potential of 20 000 jobs in 2013. Whereas with the benefits that includes clean environment and resources saving, the Working for Waste & recycling programs potential size is estimated at R23-R37 billion with the potential of 20 000 jobs in 2013.

The transport sector represents about 13-15 percent of South Africa’s GHG emissions, and emissions from the sector are expected to grow by about 17 percent between 2007 and 2011. The transport sector has great potential to reduce its carbon footprint through some relatively inexpensive interventions, including shifting passengers towards public transport,. The Government is currently undertaking a greenhouse gas inventory for the transport sector, which will provide the basis for policy direction and program priorities for modal shifts for passenger and freight transport, and particularly for a modal shift from road to rail.

The Working for Water program potential size is estimated at R600 million with the potential of (60 000) jobs in 2013 resulting with improved water security. While the waste water treatment potential size is estimated at R2 billion with the potential of 2 000 jobs in 2013.

Work to improve the management and rehabilitation of natural assets (such as fresh water, marine environments, forests, landscapes) as well as work to improve the productivity of agriculture including management through safe pesticides, reductions in energy and water use.
Wildlife and eco-tourism are also an important component. Nature–based tourism depends on unspoilt scenery, well-conserved biodiversity, and clean air and water, which are supported by ecosystem processes and environmental health.

Local Government is best placed to implement “small scale” green economy interventions. Communication, education and regulation will be necessary to green municipalities