Most economists forecast the immediate future to be more of the same. Barring something unexpected, the global economy has stabilized to the point that things aren’t likely to get worse but, at the same time, there aren’t any indicators pointing to things getting better anytime soon. The lagging recovery has slowed the flow of investment into green technology and jobs, hindering growth in a sector rife with potential to spur our economy.

Energy and the environment are pressing concerns worldwide but have taken a backseat, for the most part, to restarting the economy. But the efforts made to address these issues do not have to be mutually exclusive. Politicians, academics and industry leaders alike have heralded the promise of green job programs.

And why wouldn’t they? The White House projects the $92 billion in stimulus funding to have created 190,000 jobs when all is said and done. Though many of these positions are waiting for individuals with the appropriate training they are perfectly suited for individuals with construction or building experience, a demographic that carries one of the highest unemployment rates in the country. Studies have also shown that an investment in green energy creates more jobs than an equal investment in traditional sources.

There are a number of secondary benefits that come with green investing as well. For example, small businesses stand to reduce a significant portion of their expenses through improved efficiency, savings that could very well translate into positions that would otherwise not be created. Almost every business could improve the efficiency of its operations in some way but generally lack the time and expertise necessary to do so. Going even further, research has shown that occupants of green buildings are observably more productive, an unexpected side effect most organizations would happily welcome.

Worldwide, the economy and energy industry are both in the midst of significant transitions. And neither is progressing as quickly as once hoped. Though it won’t right the ship alone, increasing R&D and investment in green tech, energy, etc. has the potential to address these issues simultaneous, an important quality that shouldn’t be overlooked.