“The world of work can play a critical role in transitioning to a low-carbon economy, though that will depend on our ability to develop green skills. By investing in such skills, governments, businesses and individuals can work together to create a more sustainable world that works for everyone.” [World Economic Forum]
“A Vision for Clean Growth – a clear framework for transitioning to a net zero economy, presenting some amazing opportunities for East Devon” [Cllr Paul Hayward, Portfolio Holder for Economy at EDDC]
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Companies and business organisations are looking to resources to achieve ‘net zero’: Companies struggling to get to ‘net zero’ – Vision Group for Sidmouth and The CBI on ‘net zero’, green technologies and biodiversity – Vision Group for Sidmouth and FSB South West Small Business Awards winners – Sustainable Sidmouth Champion Awards
What about the workers!?
The New Economics Foundation has just brought out a report addressing the issues:
Central to the net zero and levelling up challenges is the development of people’s education and skills. Jobs and skills are two sides of the same coin – you can’t solve one without addressing the other. Yet, the UK has a significant, albeit poorly understood, green skills gap. Sectors of huge importance for the transition to a net-zero economy, such as construction and manufacturing, are struggling with skilled workforce shortages, and there are still gaps in knowledge across the economy, including the skills and jobs needed to transform and sustain our food, transport, and care systems. Skills for a new economy | New Economics Foundation
The South West is doing relatively well – in terms of ‘nature restoration’ opportunities and “average weeks of educational training required per person to lift the average skill level to the average required for a green job”. Otherwise the area is slightly below the national average when it comes to % of green jobs to total jobs. Skills for a new economy | New Economics Foundation
But we have a long way to go: Devon and Cornwall hardest hit by low pay and skills, finds new levelling up report – Business Live
Last month, the Green Alliance produced a similar report: Closing_the_UKs_green_skills_gap.pdf
The World Economic Forum is also keen:
Climate change is already impacting labour markets, with millions having left or lost their jobs with unprecedented disruption in recent years. The world of work can play a critical role in transitioning to a low-carbon economy, though that will depend on our ability to develop green skills. By investing in such skills, governments, businesses and individuals can work together to create a more sustainable world that works for everyone. Why green skills are key to creating a better future for all | World Economic Forum
And the UK government is interested – but its most recent report is from 2011: Skills for a Green Economy
Although it is currently providing some funding: Devon and Cornwall receive £1.8m funding boost to support thousands of people into skilled jobs – Heart of the south west LEP
Last year, Friends of the Earth focussed on what councils can do: Road to zero carbon_0.pdf
Finally, East Devon District Council is taking an interest:
We recently worked with Devon County Council to develop a new Vision for Clean Growth for the West of the District. This document sets a clear framework for transitioning to a net zero economy, presenting some amazing opportunities for East Devon businesses to grasp with both hands. With new ways of working and the demand for lifestyle orientated working environments, there has never been a better time to live, learn and work here. [Cllr Paul Hayward, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economy at East Devon District Council] 14 January 2022 – East Devon economy bouncing back fuelled by green growth – East Devon