The Bureau of Labor’s latest employment summary indicates a 5 percent surge in May’s unemployment rates, which according to the Labor Department, is the largest monthly spike in more than two decades.

Although the economy has lost 49,000 jobs for a fifth month of decline, a new report (pdf) by the Political Economy Research Institute illustrates that strong climate policy would directly protect over 14 million American jobs.  It would also greatly stimulate green investment, driving further green job creation.

As the nation struggles with an economy in recession, rising unemployment rates, and record-high oil prices, could “green collar jobs” in America’s growing clean energy sector spur the transition to a green economy?

With an avalanche of interest in clean energy and businesses of all sizes exploring ways to go green, sustainability represents “a massive opportunity for investment right now,” says Brett Conrad, managing partner of Longboard Capital Advisors.

At the recent GreenWest Expo, Conrad and other financial experts held a panel on “Investing in Sustainability,” offering advice on the current state of the market, and tips for getting involved.