Socio-Economic Transformation Through Green Job Development: Strengthening Sustainable Livelihoods in Regions

Abstract

Resource-dependent regions face interconnected challenges related to economic vulnerability, environmental degradation, climate change, and unequal access to livelihood resources. In this context, green job development offers a potential pathway for achieving socio-economic transformation while supporting environmental sustainability. This study examines how green jobs contribute to socio-economic transformation and resilient livelihoods in resource-dependent regions. A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) guided by the PRISMA framework was conducted using literature retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The review covered peer-reviewed journal articles and selected institutional reports published between 2012 and 2025. From 138 initially identified records, 20 studies met the inclusion and quality assessment criteria and were included in the final synthesis. The findings indicate that green jobs contribute to socio-economic transformation through human capital development, livelihood diversification, social inclusion, and expanded green economic opportunities. They also generate measurable environmental benefits through emission reduction, improved resource efficiency, sustainable production practices, and ecosystem restoration. However, these outcomes depend heavily on institutional capacity, access to green financing, green skills development, and coherent, inclusive policy frameworks. The study highlights that green jobs should be positioned not merely as employment opportunities but as an integrated instrument to strengthen livelihood resilience and advance environmental sustainability. The findings provide policy implications for governments and development institutions to align green skills development, financing mechanisms, labor policies, and environmental governance in resource-dependent regions.