Meeting the low carbon skills challenge Thursday, April 1, 2010 - 14:37

NIACE - supporter of 10:10 - welcomes the launch of Meeting the Low Carbon Skills Challenge, a consultation setting out the government's priorities and the skills challenges entailed in a successful transition to a low carbon society.

The consultation's commitment to a just transition for all includes recognition of the needs of those already in the workforce as well as future entrants. Engagement activity, targeted progression routes and skills development opportunities will be required to secure universal interest in low carbon careers, skills and qualifications and access for adults of all skills levels.

Trade union contributions and the adult advancement and careers service are rightly identified in the consultation as key. The careers information and advice provision embedded in adult learning, training and other services, including teachers, frontline staff, and learning champions will also be critical to include the widest range of adults.

NIACE also welcomes commitments to generate STEM skills and the intention to co-fund 2,500 new apprenticeships in the wind energy sector. However, women are under-represented in these areas and initiatives must be developed in ways that counter the current occupational segregation.

Jane Ward, NIACE Senior Programme Director, said:

"This consultation provides the opportunity for a national debate on mitigating the effects of dangerous climate change and accelerating our transition to the carbon neutral society we need. It is crucial that the interests of the whole of society are represented in skills developments and the voices of those adults furthest from learning and the labour market are heard."