“We need to act now and set out milestones for net zero because the pace of action required means we need to be absolutely clear on what will happen and by when. 2050 sounds far away but we need shorter-term, harder targets.
Net Zero ‘greening’ of existing housing stock needs to be undertaken in a timely fashion, scheduled in with existing housing repairs and improvement plans, so as to be more cost effective, more productive and cause less disruption to residents.
Communication is the single biggest barrier to improving training for net zero skills. With no clear policy direction emerging and policy not being informed by specialists, the information coming out is woolly and inconsistent. Every educational course needs to be made ‘net zero compatible’ quickly. We are already churning out the new workforce without the relevant skills required to achieve net zero.
I am working with The Skills Centre, who will be delivering skills for retrofit, green new build and specialist green occupations. We have recently developed ‘Greening London Construction’ which supports a range of green interventions including L1/2/3 qualifications, personal support, job entry and in-work support. Staff have the opportunity to obtain a net zero qualification and we are promoting business mentoring across the supply chain to improve understanding of the green agenda.”