Addressing the Green Workforce Challenge —Insights From LinkedIn’s Global Green Skills Report 2024
In this interview, Joanne Thurlow, Executive Director at The ESG Institute, delves into the findings of LinkedIn’s Global Green Skills Report 2024. She highlights the growing demand for green talent, the urgent need for upskilling, and how businesses and professionals can prepare to thrive in the rapidly evolving green economy.
The ESG Institute is committed to advancing sustainable practices and recognizing the transformative impact of ESG principles on the global workforce and economy. Through expert-led conversations, we empower businesses and individuals with insights and tools to thrive in the green economy.
In this installment, we spoke with Joanne Thurlow, Executive Director of The ESG Institute, to explore the findings of LinkedIn’s Global Green Skills Report 2024. With her deep expertise and passion for sustainability, Joanne discusses the critical role of green skills in achieving climate targets, the challenges of addressing the growing demand for green talent, and how businesses and professionals can prepare for the rapidly evolving demands of the green economy.
Joanne, thank you for joining us today. The LinkedIn Global Green Skills Report 2024 reveals a critical gap between the demand and supply of green talent. What are your thoughts on the report's findings?
The report is both a wake-up call and an opportunity. It shows that while the demand for green talent has grown by 11.6% between 2023 and 2024, the supply has lagged at just 5.6%. This disparity could have dire consequences—not just for industries, but for the global climate agenda. According to the report, by 2050, one in two green jobs could go unfilled if we don’t act now.
At the same time, it highlights the immense potential for professionals to position themselves for these emerging opportunities. With hiring rates for green-skilled candidates globally 54.6% higher than average, and even higher in places like the US (80.3%) and Ireland (79.8%), the green economy is offering unparalleled career growth prospects.
Why do you think the gap between demand and supply exists, and what industries are most affected?
The gap exists because the green transition is moving faster than our ability to upskill the workforce. Industries like utilities—where 23.1% of job postings require green skills—and construction, which contributes to 37% of global emissions, are at the forefront of this demand. The manufacturing sector is also under pressure, with 13.2% of job postings requiring green expertise as companies strive to decarbonize supply chains and develop low-carbon materials.
The challenge is compounded by the fact that many existing roles are being redefined with green skills requirements. For example, sustainable procurement, the fastest-growing skill globally, saw a 15% increase in professionals adding it to their profiles in 2024. This demand isn’t just creating new jobs—it’s transforming traditional ones, making green skills essential across the board.
Are there specific regions leading the charge in green job growth, and what can we learn from them?
Absolutely. Some countries are clearly ahead in fostering green job growth. Portugal stands out with a 71.3% increase in job postings requiring green skills, supported by a $27 billion investment in renewable energy. The UK has seen a 46% surge, driven by ambitious policies like the Sustainability Disclosure Requirements. Singapore and Luxembourg also reported growth rates of 27.1% and 27%, respectively.
These regions demonstrate the importance of proactive government policies and corporate commitment in accelerating the green transition. However, they also highlight the need for robust training infrastructure to ensure the workforce can meet the growing demand.
What barriers prevent the workforce from closing this green skills gap, especially for underrepresented groups like Gen Z and women?
The barriers are significant. For Gen Z, who will make up more than a third of the workforce by 2030, the challenges include lack of experience (45%), limited access to green skills training (41%), and uncertainty about green career paths. Currently, only 1 in 20 Gen Z workers possess green skills, even though 61% express a strong desire to work in green jobs within the next five years.
The situation for women is equally concerning. Only 10% of women have green skills, compared to 17% of men, and the gap is widening by 0.17 percentage points annually. Addressing these disparities isn’t just about equity—it’s about ensuring diverse perspectives in the green economy, which are critical for innovation.
What role do training and upskilling play in bridging this gap, and how is The ESG Institute contributing?
Training and upskilling are absolutely essential. The report underscores the urgency of equipping the workforce with green skills to meet rising demand. Without intervention, by 2030, one in five green jobs globally will lack qualified candidates.
At The ESG Institute, we’re tackling this challenge head-on with programs like the ESG Strategy Certificate, CSRD Professional Certificate, and Sustainable Finance Certificate. These courses are designed to provide professionals with practical skills in areas like ESG metrics, renewable energy strategies, and sustainable procurement. Our goal is to empower individuals not only to secure green jobs but also to lead in this critical transition.
Are there specific success stories or trends that highlight the transformative potential of green skills?
Certainly. Take Brazil, where according to the report solar energy skills have exploded, with the number of professionals adding solar system design to their profiles growing ninefold. This aligns with $82 billion in energy transition investments. Similarly, in Germany, skills in green hydrogen have grown by 224.5%, driven by policies like the Easter Package, which aims for renewable energy dominance by 2035.
These examples show how targeted investments and policies can drive both skill development and economic growth. They also underline the need for professionals to act now and position themselves for opportunities in these transformative sectors.
What’s your message to professionals who may feel unprepared for the green economy?
My message is simple: the time to act is now. The green economy represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity—not just for industries, but for individuals. Whether you’re an industry veteran or a recent graduate, aligning your skills with the demands of the green economy is the best way to future-proof your career.
The report highlights that half of all green jobs could remain unfilled by 2050 if we don’t address this skills gap. But it’s not just about filling roles—it’s about driving meaningful change. At The ESG Institute, we’re here to help. Our courses provide the tools you need to thrive in this evolving landscape. The opportunities are immense, but they require action.
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