Measuring emission intensity of jobs identifies distinct sector challenges for climate policy

Paris pledges have yet to translate into effective climate policy as global warming approaches 1.5°C. A major political obstacle to the green transition is the “job-killing” argument, which persists due to public concerns about job losses and the inevitable decline of some sectors. To examine how this challenge varies across sectors, we analyse the emission intensity of employment (CO2eq/job), complementing the traditional indicator – emissions per value added. Using final goods-based accounting, we estimate the domestic emissions and employment in each sector as well as in their supply chains. This reveals the need for policies that balance emission reductions with job losses not just in targeted sectors but throughout the economy. Our results show sectors vary widely in job generation and emission intensity of jobs, implying distinct policy challenges. In response, we propose a sector-specific policy framework with four strategies: Protect & proceed; Keep & decarbonise; Decarbonise or decline; and Let live. These strategies combine three kinds of climate policy to match sector characteristics: carbon pricing, green industrial policy, and just transition measures. By addressing decarbonisation and employment in a balanced way, these strategies can improve public acceptability and enhance the political feasibility of climate action.