In order both to achieve and to ensure the maximum socioeconomic value in achieving the goals of the European Green Deal, it is essential to ensure that Europe’s workforce is equipped with the skills that will allow them to thrive in green industries. Unfortunately, a major gap exists between the skills required for this shift and those that the labour force are currently in possession of. A mapping exercise by Eurocities examines this gap in the context of European cities.
You can read the full report here.
European cities have set ambitious emission-reduction targets, aligned with the European Green Deal, and are focusing on training and attracting talent for sectors such as renewable energy and eco-friendly construction. However, there is a significant gap between the demand for skilled workers and the available workforce, slowing progress towards sustainability goals. This skills shortage also disproportionately affects disadvantaged groups, leading to inequalities in access to green jobs.
Local authorities are partnering with regional and national entities to overcome these challenges, with many cities launching vocational training programmes aimed at reskilling and upskilling their populations. However, barriers remain, including attracting participants to these programmes, aligning employment standards with workforce training, and securing long-term funding.
To enhance the green transition workforce, Eurocities recommends that EU policymakers involve cities more directly in skills initiatives, secure long-term funding for training programmes, and promote inclusive labour market reforms that support at-risk groups. Shifting corporate hiring standards to value diverse educational backgrounds is also essential to ensure no one is left behind in the green transition.
Go to resource