As the world grapples with an urgent need for sustainable solutions, the surge in demand for "green skills" is more than a trend—it's a transformative force. According to the World Economic Forum's "Future of Jobs Report 2020," an estimated 85 million jobs could be displaced by 2025 due to shifts in technology and business models, while around 97 million new roles, primarily in green sectors, may emerge, underscoring the necessity of green skills.Green skills include knowledge, expertise, and abilities geared towards sustainability and environmental conservation. Encompassing competencies for green jobs, like renewable energy, waste management, and eco-friendly practices, green skills are no longer optional but imperative. They hold the compass to navigate us toward a future where renewable energy, efficient waste management, sustainable agriculture and eco-conscious design converge.

‍
Empowering Change and Economic Growth

The International Labour Organization's "Skills for a Greener Future" report emphasizes the need for a diverse skill set to address environmental challenges. Amidst the clamour for greener practices, green skills emerge as pivotal enablers.

They empower individuals to forge pathways to sustainability, catalyzing innovation, energy efficiency, emission reduction, and resource stewardship. According to the United Nations Environment Programme's "Global Environment Outlook 6," embracing sustainable practices could generate over $26 trillion in benefits by 2030. Their impact extends further, spurring economic growth and creating new employment opportunities. As industries rally behind green technologies, roles in renewable energy, waste management, sustainable agriculture, environmental consultancy, and green construction emerge as the vanguards of change.

‍

Industry Transformations and Resonance of Green Skills

Industries across the spectrum are undergoing significant transformations that underscore the critical importance of green skills. While sectors like solar, wind, and geothermal energy have been at the forefront of the green revolution, several other industries are also experiencing a rising demand for these skills.

• Construction and Architecture: Shift to sustainable building practices demands experts in green construction and design.
• Transportation: Eco-friendly logistics and EVs drive demand for green skills in transportation and logistics management.
• Agriculture and Food Production: Sustainable agriculture calls for specialists in organic farming and resource-efficient practices.
• Waste Management: Recycling and circular economy principles require professionals skilled in waste reduction and resource reuse.
• Manufacturing: Resource-efficient manufacturing and sustainable supply chains need experts to reduce environmental impacts.
• Water Management: Efficient water resource management seeks experts in conservation, treatment, and sustainable practices.
• Information Technology: IT's role in sustainability demands professionals for energy-efficient technology solutions and green data centres.
• Healthcare: Hospitals adopting green practices require healthcare management professionals with sustainability expertise.
• Retail and Consumer Goods: Sustainable packaging and ethical sourcing demand green expertise.
• Government and Policy: Environmental policy and green governance experts are essential for sustainability initiatives.

The demand for green skills extends far beyond the obvious renewable energy sectors, permeating diverse industries seeking to align with environmental and sustainability goals. This shift reflects a broader commitment to creating a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future across all facets of our economy and society.

‍

Government’s Push For Green Skills

The Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has launched the Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP). This initiative aims to empower India's youth by providing them with skills in the environment and forest sector, enabling opportunities for gainful employment or self-employment.

A Guiding Light to a Sustainable Future

n an era of transformative evolution, green skills emerge as guideposts to humanity's relationship with the planet. They interweave economic prosperity, environmental stewardship, and social progress. As we pursue a sustainable and enlightened future, green skills lead the way—a journey that invites us to walk confidently, recognising its necessity for our collective well-being.