What is Green Skills Training in Construction?

The construction industry is undergoing a paradigm shift as industries worldwide face the realities and challenges of climate change. As governments, organisations, and individuals prioritise sustainable practices, the demand for “green skills” is rapidly growing. But what exactly are green skills, and why are they so essential to the construction industry? 

What Are Green Skills?

Green skills refer to the knowledge, abilities, and behaviours that enable individuals and organisations to support sustainability and environmental management. These skills focus on reducing environmental impact, improving energy efficiency, and embracing eco-friendly practices across any and all sectors.

For construction specifically, green skills include competencies such as:

• Understanding renewable energy systems.
• Using sustainable materials.
• Implementing waste reduction strategies.
• Complying with environmental regulations.

Beyond technical skills, green skills also encompass strategic planning and problem-solving to align construction projects with organisational sustainability goals. The importance of green skills extends beyond just personal development for employees — they have become instrumental in driving economic growth and protecting the planet for future generations.

Why Does the UK Need Workers to Be Trained with Green Skills?

The UK has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, a goal that requires significant changes in how industries operate. Construction, a sector known for its high carbon footprint, is central to this transition. According to the UK Green Building Council, the construction industry accounts for nearly 40% of the UK’s total carbon emissions.

To remain compliant with national and international regulations, organisations in the construction industry must explore every possible avenue to reduce their impact on the environment. 

Training workers with green skills is vital to reducing this impact. A skilled workforce is better equipped to design and execute projects that are energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and compliant with evolving regulations. This ensures the industry can meet demand for more sustainable practices while maintaining competitiveness in a global market increasingly focused on sustainability.

Moreover, as policies like the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) Regulations and Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) initiatives gain momentum, construction firms must adapt to avoid penalties and embrace opportunities in the green economy.

What Is Listed as Green Skills in Construction?

Green skills in construction span a wide range of competencies that support sustainable practices.

• Renewable Energy Systems: Expertise in integrating solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable energy solutions into building designs. Also including the use of electric vehicles in the process of construction.
• Sustainable Material Use: Understanding the environmental impact of construction materials and works. Selecting and sourcing more eco-friendly materials like recycled concrete, timber, and low-carbon steel.
• Waste Management: Implementing strategies to minimise waste during construction. Also, promoting reuse and recycling of materials on-site.
• Compliance with Environmental Regulations: Familiarity with local and international frameworks and standards, including BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) and ISO 14001.
• Carbon Accounting: Measuring and mitigating the carbon impact of construction projects - both during the process of a construction and afterwards. Also, understanding the tools and information needed to measure carbon emission output.

How Can Upskilling Your Workforce Help Meet the UK’s Net Zero Goal of 2050?

Investing in upskilling your workforce with green skills actively contributes to the wider international goal of reducing carbon emissions and reducing environmental impacts. Upskilling your workforce will help the UK achieve it’s net zero ambitions by:

• Reducing Carbon Emissions: Trained employees can implement and participate in low-carbon construction techniques and initiatives. For example, renewable energy solutions such as electric vehicles, directly lower emissions from projects.
• Promoting Innovation: Green skills encourage innovative approaches, such as modular construction, which can streamline processes and minimise waste.
• Enhancing Competitiveness: As sustainability becomes a key focus for tenders and contracts, companies with skilled workers are better positioned to win bids.
• Building Long-Term Resilience: Firms with expertise in sustainable practices are better equipped to adapt to future changes in regulations ensuring they avoid large fines and legal action. These businesses will also stay ahead on market demands.
• Boosting Economic Growth: Transitioning to a green economy can create jobs, stimulate investment, and drive economic resilience across sectors.

By prioritising and developing in-house green skills, businesses play an active role in creating a construction industry that is efficient, innovative, and aligned with the UK’s environmental goals.

What Courses Do Astutis Offer Which Can Help Train Your Workforce with Green Skills?

As one of the leading IEMA and green skills training providers in the UK, we are committed to helping organisations meet the demands of a sustainable future and develop their own expertise in environmental management and sustainability. We offer a wide range of courses for workers at all levels of an organisation that teach essential green skills:

IEMA Foundation Certificate in Environmental Management

Designed for those starting their journey in sustainability, this course covers the fundamentals of managing environmental performance.

IEMA Certificate in Environmental Management

This course serves as a fantastic follow-up for employees who need a deeper understanding of the topics covered in the Foundation Certificate, as well as more complex topics such as environmental management systems. Many learners have commented on the comprehensive syllabus.

ISO 14001 Lead Auditor Training

Focused on equipping professionals with the expertise to implement and audit environmental management systems (EMS) according to ISO 14001 standards. ISO 14001 is an international standard that specifies requirements for an effective EMS.

Carbon Accounting

Our Carbon Accounting course provides a thorough understanding of carbon accounting and managing emissions. It provides employees with the essential knowledge and skills need to measure, report and reduce carbon footprints in line with frameworks such as the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol ISO14064-1.

By investing in training from Astutis, companies can ensure their workforce is equipped to lead the charge toward sustainability, aligning with industry demands and regulatory requirements. Begin planning your green skills training program, by heading over to our IEMA course library below.