November 2024
Amit Verma outlines the green skills public sector accountants need in order to help the country achieve Net Zero.
The UK met its third carbon budget (2018–2022) ahead of schedule, achieving a 50% reduction in emissions compared with 1990 levels. However, a 2023 report by the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) raises concerns about delays in policy development, casting doubt on the UK’s ability to meet future emissions targets. This leads us to ask: what green skills are essential for achieving Net Zero, and how can public finance professionals contribute?
A more co-ordinated approach
As we look ahead it’s clear that the future of green skills in the UK must be shaped by a more coordinated approach – one that directly involves local authorities. Currently, many sectors essential to the green transition, such as education, renewable energy, new technologies including hydrogen, sustainable transport, manufacturing and construction are experiencing severe skill shortages. Without addressing these gaps the UK’s progress toward a sustainable, low-carbon economy is at risk.
Local authorities bridging skills gap
Local authorities are well positioned to lead the Net Zero transition due to their close ties to communities and businesses. However, they require better resources and consistent support from the central government to be effective.
The United Nations defines a green economy as “low carbon, resource-efficient, and socially inclusive”. Local authorities play a vital role in realising this vision through public-private partnerships and community engagement. Yet, the Green Jobs Taskforce report highlights that financial constraints and fragmented policies limit their ability to implement effective green skills training.
Despite these challenges, some councils are taking innovative approaches. Manchester City Council’s Work and Skills strategy, for instance, is linking businesses and residents with sustainable job opportunities. This demonstrates how local authorities can successfully foster green jobs. However, more needs to be done at a national level to empower these local bodies to scale their initiatives.
Policy to overcome barriers
Key challenges include a lack of business confidence to invest in green skills and short- term funding models that hinder long-term planning for local authorities. Additionally, underfunding in further education has led to a shortage of qualified instructors, widening the gap between industry needs and workforce readiness.
To overcome these barriers, a robust policy framework is needed that ensures consistent funding and integrates skills development into the broader Net Zero strategy. CIPFA recommends the following solutions:
Long-term funding models: Local authorities require sustained financial support for long-term green skills programmes, including low-carbon apprenticeships.
Public-private partnerships: Government incentives can encourage businesses to collaborate with local authorities on training programmes tailored to sector needs.
Support for further education: Collaborating with educational institutions is vital to increase the pool of qualified instructors. Investing in vocational training can better prepare future workers for a Net Zero economy.
Local authority involvement: Active participation of local governments in national initiatives like the Green Jobs Taskforce can align policies with local needs, enabling a more tailored, skills development approach.
Recognising local authorities’ role
For the UK to achieve its Net Zero goals, local authorities must be recognised as essential players in the green skills revolution. The Committee for Climate Change CCC’s 2020 report emphasises the need for clearer guidance and adequate funding to support these efforts.
Organisations like CIPFA can assist by developing training programmes, such as the CIPFA Certificate in Sustainability, which helps public sector professionals make informed, sustainable decisions. By integrating sustainability into local governance and fostering collaboration among government, businesses and educational institutions, local authorities can drive the UK towards a low-carbon and resilient economy.
Achieving Net Zero relies on mobilising local talent, leveraging green skills and equipping local authorities with the necessary tools. Through collective efforts, the UK can close the skills gap and secure a sustainable future for all.
- Amit Verma is CIPFA Sustainability Policy Manager
