Green Jobs in Romania in the Context of the Circular Economy: Opportunities, Challenges and Public Policy Directions

Nicoleta Gudanescu () and Mariana-Camelia Țăranu ()
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Nicoleta Gudanescu: Project Development Department Institute for World Economy - Romanian Academy 13 September Street, No.13th, Bucharest, ROMANIA
Mariana-Camelia Țăranu: Project Development Department Institute for World Economy - Romanian Academy 13 September Street, No.13th, Bucharest, ROMANIA

Global Economic Observer, 2026, vol. 14, issue 1, 71-87

Abstract: The article analyzes the development of the concept of green jobs and the acquisition of green skills in Romania in the context of the transition towards the circular economy, highlighting the connection between employment, environmental protection and the efficient use of resources. The circular economy involves the transition from a linear economic model, based on production, consumption and disposal, towards a model focused on waste reduction, reuse, repair, recycling and resource recovery. Within this framework, green jobs can contribute to the modernization of the labour market and to the creation of professional opportunities in areas such as waste management, recycling, renewable energy, energy-efficient construction, sustainable agriculture, green transport, and repair and reuse services. The aim of the article is to highlight the opportunities, challenges and public policy directions needed for the development of green jobs in Romania. The research is based on a theoretical and descriptive approach, through the analysis of the specialized literature, strategic documents and the main trends regarding the circular economy and green employment. In this context, Romania has significant potential for the development of green jobs, but its valorisation is limited by insufficient recycling infrastructure, the low level of green skills, limited investment and the uneven implementation of public policies. The article emphasizes the need for integrated measures aimed at vocational training, stimulating green investments, supporting circular enterprises and strengthening cooperation between public authorities, the private sector and the education system.

Keywords: green jobs; circular economy; Romania; green skills; labor market transformation; public policies; sustainable development (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: J21 J24 J48 O44 Q56 Q58 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026-06
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