By Janoo Motiani
India’s green job market is expanding rapidly, driven by the country’s focus on sustainability and various government initiatives. Businesses are increasingly creating new job opportunities across sectors like farming, eco-tourism, and renewable energy to promote sustainable practices. However, a lack of green expertise remains a global challenge, potentially slowing climate action.
STEM and digital skills are among the top competencies sought after by companies, as green jobs heavily rely on math and science expertise. According to a recent IBM report, 82% of Indian business leaders are eager to hire professionals with knowledge of green and sustainability technologies.
Here are some strategies companies can adopt to advance their green goals:
1. Reskilling and Upskilling
- Implement targeted reskilling and upskilling programs to develop a green workforce, equipping talent with updated skills in advanced machinery, sustainable practices, and emerging green technologies.
- Facilitate platforms for workshops and seminars where industry experts, skilled workers, and students can collaborate.
- Pair experienced green workers with new entrants for mentorship and long-term growth.
- Employees willing to embrace innovative skills are better prepared to adapt to changes in the green economy, driving innovation and job satisfaction.
2. Integration of EduTech
- Collaborate with educational institutions to align curricula with the demands of the green economy.
- Provide students with hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, and project-based learning.
- Initiate joint research projects that address industry challenges and promote innovation.
- Invite industry experts to share their knowledge and experiences, ensuring that upcoming talent is industry-ready.
3. Government Initiatives
- The Indian government has introduced numerous policies and programs to encourage green jobs and sustainability, such as the Skill India Mission, Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP), and National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).
- The government aims to create 35 million green jobs by 2047, focusing on areas like renewable energy, waste management, electric vehicles, and sustainable textiles.
4. Addressing Gender Gaps in Green Skills
- Studies show a significant gender gap in green skills. While one in six men qualifies as green talent, only one in ten women does, with 90% of women lacking a distinct green skill.
- A major gap lies in “cross-functional green skills,” such as maintaining and repairing computers, buildings, and electrical systems, where men are three times more likely to possess these skills.
- Bridging this gap through inclusive policies and targeted training programs will be essential for achieving net-zero goals.
According to LinkedIn, the energy, transportation, and finance sectors will play a crucial role in carbon reduction and achieving net-zero targets. Renewable energy is particularly poised for growth, with the renewable energy workforce expanding in all 48 countries surveyed between 2015 and 2023. For every 100 workers leaving the industry, 120 are joining, signaling a positive trend.
Green jobs will be instrumental in meeting global net-zero emissions targets, but success depends on building a skilled workforce capable of addressing the demands of the green economy. By unlocking the potential of green jobs, we are not just strengthening the economy but also creating a sustainable future for our planet.
(The author is Janoo Motiani, CEO & Founder, Reed & Willow, and the views expressed in this article are his own)
