Putting people professionals on the road to net zero

This report examines the transition to a net zero economy, which is set to become a defining trend of the coming three decades. The key theme running through this report is that it is people in a transforming labour market who are at the heart of the transition to net zero – and that means people professionals have to be too.

Organisational change, workforce planning and skills development are key to this transition. All three areas depend on people professionals, and they should lead the way. Their contribution will be crucial in achieving a just transition to net zero.

Report: Putting people professionals on the road to net zero

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Who is it for?

This report provides a starting point for the people profession on its net zero journey. The people profession is well placed to lead on this agenda throughout organisations – we are values-led, we drive upskilling and the adoption of technology, and we can ensure sustainability is embraced by workforces.

While the report is written through a northeast Scotland offshore energy lens, its recommendations are much broader. The report argues that fair work, sustainability and lifelong skills development will be key to the economic success of the transition to a net zero economy.

For policy-makers, this report highlights the opportunities from the people profession’s perspective. The two governments overseeing Scotland (Scottish and UK) have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to become a true global leader in net zero.

Alongside recommendations for policy-makers, the report also includes advice for people professionals, centred around embracing sustainability as an HR issue, workforce planning and skills development.