Investing in the Future: A Comparative Analysis of Green Technology and Youth Unemployment in the U.S. and South Africa

Abstract

This paper elucidates the intricate relationship between green technology investments and youth unemployment rates in the United States and South Africa. The objective is to discern whether sustainable investments can serve as a catalyst for youth employment, thereby fostering economic resilience. Utilizing a comparative analysis of secondary statistical data from the World Bank, the research employs advanced statistical methods, including to scrutinize the data for correlations over a 17-year period. The study adopts a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating economic theory and sustainability metrics. Findings: The research reveals a moderate correlation and multiple partial correlations between green technology investments and youth unemployment rates. It identifies potential avenues for policy intervention, suggesting that targeted investments could yield different outcomes, improving youth employment whilst creating sustainable entrepreneurial frameworks. The study uses secondary data. Future research should focus on expanding the dataset and exploring the impact of government policies on the variables in question. The findings underscore the need for a nuanced approach to sustainable investment, emphasizing that while green technology may directly hinder youth unemployment, it could serve as a component of a broader economic strategy. The paper offers a novel perspective on the intersection of sustainability and economic development, particularly in the context of youth unemployment. It serves as a foundational study for policymakers, academics, and investors interested in sustainable economic growth.

Presenters

Malcolm Roy Weaich
Lecturer, School of Construction Economics and Management, University of Witwatersrand Johannesburg, South Africa