California green economy thriving

California is gearing up to be the nation's clean tech engine, according to a report charting the performance of its green economy.

The California Green Innovation Index, produced by environmental NGO Next 10, found the state outperforming the US in areas ranging from energy efficiency to clean tech venture capital investment.

The GDP produced per unit of energy in California is 68 per cent higher than that for the rest of the nation, according to the report, which added that the state's energy consumption in 2006 was 18 per cent lower relative to 1970, while the US's as a whole was five per cent higher. Clean tech venture capital increased by $1.5bn (£1bn) in 2008 to $3.3bn.

The state "continues a gradual downward trend in the direction of a carbon-free economy, de-linking economic growth from GHG emissions," said Next 10. "While GDP per capita has increased by 28 per cent in 16 years (1990-2006), gross emissions per capita are 10 per cent lower than in 1990."

The cash-strapped state has also increased the number of green jobs by 10 per cent since 2005, compared to a one per cent growth in statewide jobs, according to the report.

It named advanced materials as the biggest growth area at 28 per cent, followed by transportation at 23 per cent. Air and environment jobs grew 22 per cent, while green building grew by a fifth.

The study uses a broad definition of green jobs, classing them as jobs "in businesses that provide products and services that conserve resources and reduce environmental impacts."