Why every job is a green job

Thanks to The Verdancy Group for being a Virtual College Expo23 headline sponsor. The company supports colleges with accredited courses in sustainability and the environment, including its Waste in the Circular Economy qualification, credit-rated at SCQF Level 5.

It might surprise you to learn that one in 10 jobs in Scotland is currently powered by the circular economy. This figure will continue to rise, as organisations across all sectors transition to sustainable practices, whether that’s for benevolent reasons or to benefit their bottom line.

When we think of a ‘green job’, we often imagine STEM-related roles like climate scientists and green engineers. While these are crucial roles in the fight against climate change, if we are to have any hope of succeeding in our collective Net Zero ambition, we need to recognise that every job can be a green job.

New skills for a changing workforce

Businesses are changing. To be in the running for investment and contract opportunities, or to carry favour with consumers, they must now demonstrate their sustainable credentials.

With this turning tide comes a requirement for new skills. Over the next decade, businesses will be looking for people with technical skills such as repair, design and programming, as well as soft skills like problem solving, adaptability and collaboration.

Given the significance of sustainability for businesses, soon it won’t just be an advantage to have an awareness of sustainable matters, but a requirement.

That’s why we’re seeing so many colleges making the move towards sustainable commitments, including CDN member institutions that have agreed to introduce sustainability learning plans within the coming months.

Sustainability is not just for STEM

Several world powers including the UK have already enshrined their Net Zero targets into law and as a result, we’re going to see a huge shift towards sustainable practices, not just in STEM businesses, but in other areas including hospitality, business management and administration, construction, tourism, social sciences and the creative industries.

Every role will soon have a sustainable component whether that’s recognising one’s personal role in reducing waste, designing out waste in business processes or taking a leading role in a company’s green practices.

Education for sustainability

With the rapid demand for sustainable skillsets set to rise, today’s college students need to be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to join the changing world of work.

To support colleges, The Verdancy Group offer a variety of courses and support for students, staff and stakeholders. This includes SCQF credit rated programmes, industry recognised short courses and professional CPD programmes certificated by IEMA.

We’re already seeing examples of businesses favouring sustainably-minded students. For example, one of our construction industry partners handpicks learners who have completed our Waste in the Circular Economy course at college, as they know they’ll receive a team member who understands their environmental goals.