More support needed for region’s workers in the green transition

THE GOVERNMENT and employers must do more to support workers to ensure that the UK’s transition to a green economy is fair for all, according to new research.

A survey of workers in Yorkshire and Humber on their views about the UK’s plans to become a carbon-neutral economy found that while almost all (85 per cent) were concerned about climate change, many were unsure what the green transition would mean for their jobs and careers.

The research, by Leeds University Business School, found that: 43 per cent of workers in the region expected that the decarbonisation of the economy would result in the creation of green jobs in their region; 43 per cent of workers in the region expected that new green jobs would be of better quality than their current ones; and 34 per cent of workers in the region had already seen activity to decarbonise in their workplaces.

However, around half had been consulted on the changes and only a quarter had received relevant training.

The research reveals the challenges in ensuring that there is a ‘just transition’ – where workers’ rights and livelihoods are secured as the economy moves to sustainable practice – as the UK strives to reach its target of being net zero by 2030.

The authors suggest that the Government and employers should provide occupational training and carbon literacy training for workers.

There should also be greater dialogue between employers, workers, local authorities and training providers to help workers understand early on what climate policy means, how their jobs might change, and how they could upskill or reskill to new roles.

Vera Trappmann, professor of comparative employment relations of Leeds University Business School, and co-author of the study, said: “The good news is that workers are willing and ready to get training and they see a lot of potential economically but also socially in a green economy.”

The research also makes clear the scale of the changes that are likely to be seen in the UK because of decarbonising the economy: one-in-five workers in the region expect job losses, and onein-seven believe that they will have to change job, or relocate to find work.

Dr Jo Cutter, co-author, said: “We need a significant shift in the way that workers are involved in policy, and plans to make sure that the transition to a greener economy is both fast and fair.”