Lack of skills could hinder net zero targets

The ‘Skills for net zero and a green recovery’ report, published by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), revealed that only seven per cent of UK engineering companies with a sustainability strategy felt they had the skills to achieve it, and just over half (53 per cent) of UK engineering firms think net zero will be achievable for them.

When considering who should be accountable for tackling climate change, 25 per cent of businesses said responsibility lies with the government whilst 20 per cent said it was down to business and industry. The report showed that only 55 per cent of engineering employers have a sustainability strategy with specific activities and goals. Of those with a sustainability strategy, 67 per cent said it was integrated into their overall business strategy.

Nearly one in two engineering firms stated that they are currently experiencing skills gaps (46 per cent) with many choosing to upskill/retrain existing employees (47 per cent) or hire new employees with those skills (44 per cent). Only around a third (32 per cent) said they were recruiting and training apprentices or graduates.