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.

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.

More on this topic

Podcast

Ireland Podcasts

Listen to episodes from our CIPD Ireland Podcast Series on a range of topical workplace, HR and L&D issues

Listen now
Podcast

HR People Pod

The CIPD's fortnightly podcast brings together top HRDs, CPOs and business leaders to look behind the news headlines and current topics impacting HR practices

Listen now
Thought leadership
Critical role of HR business partnering in HR operating models

How can people teams balance line managers’ need for operational people management support while growing their team’s strategic influence through the HRBP role?

Thought leadership
Analysis | Quantifying the impact of generative AI on HR

We examine and outline recent research investigating the impact of generative AI tools on the HR profession

More reports

Report
Resourcing and talent planning report

Trend analysis and benchmarking data on recruitment, retention and talent management to inform HR and employers on practice considerations and decision-making

Report
CIPD Good Work Index: Northern Ireland

A Northern Ireland summary of the CIPD Good Work Index 2024 survey report

Report
CIPD Good Work Index: Wales

A Wales summary of the CIPD Good Work Index 2024 survey report

Report
CIPD Good Work Index: North of England

A North of England summary of the CIPD Good Work Index 2024 survey report

See all reports