California has a history of cutting edge cultural change and technological advance. To date, this history is repeating itself in the realm of green innovation, and Information Technology (IT) is an essential component to the progress. The state’s pioneering spirit is fueled in part by its world-class research and development talent, precedent setting public policy, and forward-looking population. Teachers play an important role in bridging learning with real-world opportunities to innovate and “green” our economy.
Innovation breaks down barriers and creates new value. Companies that are IT savvy are 20 percent more profitable than their competitors. California’s advances depend on classroom teachers who influence the direction of curriculum and provide instruction to produce innovative leaders, creative problem-solvers, and business-savvy entrepreneurs that shake up the status quo. Our economy and prosperity are enhanced as classroom teachers impart appropriate “green” attitudes in our students.
The 2010 California Green Innovation Index Report (Index) is a recent report produced by Next 10 and prepared by Collaborative Economics. The Index tracksCalifornia’s history of policy and technology innovation, and resulting economic and environmental gains or losses.
Research included in this 2010 California Green Innovation Index details:
•California’s global leadership in green innovation continues to grow, attracting billions in investment dollars.
•California’s green manufacturing jobs are growing while conventional manufacturing jobs are in decline.
•California’s economy has profited from efforts to improve energy efficiency and reduce its dependence on carbon.
•Californians are getting out of their cars more to use public transportation, or using more alternative fuels when driving.
The 2010 Index includes two special features. The first, “The Changing Business Climate inCalifornia: Impacts & New Opportunities” examines myths aboutCalifornia’s business climate and found contrary to conventional wisdom, the facts are:
•Fact One: Electricity bills are lower inCalifornia.
•Fact Two: Californiamanufacturers spend a smaller percentage of total operating costs on electricity.
•Fact Three: California’s electricity productivity in manufacturing is outpacing the rest of the nation.
•Fact Four: More businesses are starting up inCaliforniathan are leaving or closing.