The United Kingdom has committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, which means balancing the total greenhouse gas emissions produced with those removed from the atmosphere. This goal aims to curb global warming and mitigate climate change. To support this effort, the United Kingdom Government has implemented a range of policies outlined in two key strategy documents: the Net Zero Strategy (2021) and Powering Up Britain: The Net Zero Growth Plan (2023). (UK Parliament, 2024)

 

The green transition depends heavily on the availability of “green talent”—workers equipped with the skills required for a sustainable economy. As this transition accelerates, it will prompt a significant and rapid shift in the demand for skills, jobs, and specific goods, outpacing the market's ability to adjust naturally.

​

​​This report highlights the importance of bridging the green talent gap as part of the policy measures in mitigating climate change. This gap is identified by a classification of green jobs using the GreenSOC (Green Standard Occupational Classification), where three categories are used: i. occupations in new green industries; ii. roles requiring updated skills for sustainability; and iii. existing occupations that are critical in supporting eco-friendly initiatives. To do so, the report aims to show, over a series of 5 years (2019–2023), the behavior of the green jobs under this classification for the case of the labour market in the United Kingdom. 

 

In addition, this report offers practical recommendations for adapting local skills systems to support the green transition while ensuring it is implemented in a socially equitable manner. It outlines strategies for fostering effective green skills categorization by enhancing collaboration across government, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders.