The Chinese lead in wind-turbine jobs. The Japanese lead in lithium-battery technology. Greens tells us government intervention is essential if America is going to catch up and create the green jobs of tomorrow — unless they’re jobs greens don’t like.

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality this week finally approved permits for nickel mining in the state’s Upper Peninsula after years of review and under strict regulatory language. The site would be the first dedicated nickel mine in the United States, weaning us from dependence on imported nickel to make the nickel-metal-hydride batteries popular in green icons like the Ford Escape and Toyota Prius hybrids. The mine will employ 500 in the construction phase, and 200 permanent jobs.

A green dream come true?

Nope. Environmental groups from the National Wildlife Federation to the Michigan Environmental Council oppose the decision and plan to appeal. They say green mineral mining isn’t green at all, but acidifies groundwater, threatens a rare trout species, and disturbs a tribal landmark that Keweenaw Bay Indians use for spiritual ceremonies.

Wind turbines shred birds. Nukes are dangerous. And nickel is dirty. Green creates jobs all right — for green lawyers suing green tech.