Green skills gap likely to put climate goals at risk - Here's how HR can help

The clock is ticking on our planet's future and the urgency of addressing climate change has never been clearer. The recent report from the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) serves as a stark reminder: the next decade is crucial for determining the liveability of our planet for future generations. Tackling the monumental task of reducing greenhouse gas emissions requires a comprehensive overhaul of our global economy, spanning industries, roles, and geographic regions.

Amidst this daunting challenge lies an opportunity for transformative change. By aligning our efforts with environmental goals, we can not only safeguard the planet but also drive economic growth on a global scale. At the heart of this endeavour are humans, and the key to mobilising our collective energy lies with Human Resources (HR) professionals.

But how can HR rise to the occasion? Let's delve deeper into this pivotal question.

According to the LinkedIn Global Green Skills Report 2023, the world is grappling with a significant green skills gap. Shockingly, only one in eight workers possesses green skills, leaving the vast majority ill-equipped to address environmental challenges. 

However, there is cause for optimism as the demand for green skills is on the rise. Job postings requiring at least one green skill have surged, outpacing overall hiring trends. This underscores the urgent need to equip the current workforce with the necessary skills to champion sustainability.

Additionally, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) highlights the growing importance of sustainability in business practices. Consumers and investors are increasingly favouring companies that prioritise environmental responsibility. 

Therefore, sustainable practices not only enhance a company's reputation but also contribute to more efficient supply chains, thereby reducing environmental impact. As businesses face mounting pressure to address climate change, HR can play a crucial role in driving organisational change towards sustainability.

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Action plan for HR to close the green skills gap

To address the green skills gap and foster a culture of environmental stewardship within organisations, HR professionals have a pivotal role to play. By implementing strategic initiatives, HR can empower employees to embrace sustainable practices and lead by example. Here's a detailed breakdown of how HR can take action:

Assessing current skills and knowledge:

The first step is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of employees' current skills and knowledge levels regarding environmental sustainability. This can be achieved through surveys, interviews, and performance evaluations. By gathering data, HR can identify areas where additional training and development are needed, gaining insights into specific green skills gaps within the organisation.

Developing green training programs:

Based on the assessment findings, HR should design and implement green training programs aimed at equipping employees with the necessary knowledge and skills. These programs may cover topics such as environmental awareness, resource conservation, waste management, and renewable energy. Training sessions can be delivered through various formats, including workshops, seminars, online courses, and peer-to-peer learning initiatives, catering to diverse learning preferences and schedules.

Integrating sustainability into onboarding and orientation:

To instil a culture of sustainability from the outset, HR should integrate green principles into the onboarding and orientation processes for new hires. This involves providing information about the organisation's sustainability goals, initiatives, and expectations, as well as introducing new employees to green policies, practices, and resources. By emphasising sustainability from day one, HR can cultivate a sense of environmental responsibility among all employees.

Promoting cross-functional collaboration:

Closing the green skills gap requires collaboration across departments and functions within the organisation. HR should facilitate cross-functional collaboration by bringing together employees from different areas to work on sustainability projects and initiatives. By fostering a culture of collaboration and knowledge-sharing, HR can harness the diverse expertise and perspectives of employees to drive innovation and find creative solutions to sustainability challenges.

Recognising and Rewarding Green Behaviours:

To incentivise and reinforce green behaviours, HR can implement recognition and reward mechanisms. This can include formal recognition programs, awards, bonuses, or other incentives for employees who demonstrate exemplary commitment to environmental stewardship. By publicly acknowledging and rewarding green behaviours, HR can motivate employees to actively engage in sustainability efforts and cultivate a sense of pride and ownership in their contributions.

Let's continue to work together to close the green skills gap, promote sustainability, and build a better world for tomorrow. Happy Earth Day!