A joint virtual event hosted by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Enabling Better Infrastructure (EBI) programme examined how Spain and South Africa are preparing their workforces to build sustainable infrastructure. Both countries recognize the critical role of green jobs in their national plans and the necessity to close skills gaps to meet future infrastructure needs.
Building infrastructure sustainably is vital to combat rising global temperatures. As many governments prioritize climate action, sustainable infrastructure is a key component. However, turning these strategies into reality often requires new skill sets, which have been challenging to implement. The UNEP-EBI event highlighted government initiatives tackling these issues through skill development.
South Africa’s Approach: Using National Priorities to Promote Skills and Training
South Africa has shown commitment to its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets by promoting sustainable infrastructure, focusing on three main sectors: electricity, electric vehicles, and the hydrogen economy. These sectors will require new skills, such as practical training for renewable energy in mining, vehicle production, battery technology, and hydrogen understanding.
Joanne Yawitch, head of the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JET-IP), revealed that South Africa is addressing skills gaps by collaborating with stakeholders to modernize training programs. The country also takes a geographic approach, with skills development zones near key sectors, such as Mpumalanga for electricity, Eastern Cape for automotive industries, and Northern Cape for hydrogen.
Spain’s Approach: Understanding the Big Picture to Identify Skills Gaps
Spain’s National Climate Change Adaptation Plan outlines green jobs as essential to addressing climate change. However, Spain also faces challenges in identifying workers with the necessary skills and in updating training programs to adapt to emerging green jobs. The Ministry for Ecological Transition identified 40 strategic green occupations, including electric vehicle specialists and sustainability-focused construction roles.
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To overcome these challenges, the Spanish government has developed a green entrepreneurial network to offer training for unemployed workers and entrepreneurs. The program aims to promote green jobs while ensuring inclusivity for vulnerable groups by providing flexible courses for people of all skill levels.
These strategies from both countries emphasize the importance of preparing a skilled workforce for sustainable infrastructure projects, which are crucial for future global climate goals.
The UNEP and EBI event was part of a series of webinars exploring how countries can scope ahead to ensure the success of their infrastructure strategies. The next session will be held on 25 June 2025.
The EBI program continues to support countries in developing skills that are essential for the green economy and the successful implementation of sustainable infrastructure.
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