Sustainability in Action: Striving for a Better Tomorrow

Following on from our previous article which explored Ireland’s Soaring Demand for Construction Jobs let’s look at one key area which is applicable to all sectors – Sustainability.

We are all experiencing the impact of climate change, and we all have our part to play in society, both from a personal and professional perspective. In combatting climate change, companies will have to reduce wastage in the workplace, and this takes many forms.

It is essential that all buildings are insulated to the highest standards and built using sustainable materials that are low carbon or recyclable. Efficient regulation of indoor air temperature has benefits beyond reducing energy consumption.

Companies need to focus on ways to make their operations more sustainable. For the majority of companies, this means focusing on developing a sustainable strategy that incorporates energy supply diversification, green efficient use of resources, process improvements, reducing food wastage, and a full review of the company’s procurement and purchasing departments in order to work with suppliers who produce items that can easily be recycled or refurbished.??

Reports have shown that?63% of millennials?are willing to pay more for sustainable products, and businesses are rethinking both the sustainability of their materials and processes and the environmental impact and recyclability of their products. Generation Z shows the most concern for the planet’s well-being and influences others to make sustainability-first buying decisions.

A creditable sustainability strategy is critical to Recruitment and Selection from a HR?perspective. Millennials are looking for companies that consider social responsibility and sustainable purpose. A strong majority of millennials have chosen a job because of the ethos of the brand's sustainability values. A company's commitment to the environment would be the key decision-maker prior to accepting an offer.

The International Labour Organisation is predicting that a transition to a clean energy industry will lead to the loss of 6 million jobs worldwide by 2030. But the positive news is that they are predicting that the greening of the global economy will create 24 million additional jobs , therefore, netting an over increase of 18 million jobs.

These jobs will be across all sectors and will incorporate new types of jobs, thereby creating new opportunities in occupations that previously did not exist.

Investment in employee training and education for sustainable development is a key component to the success of any company’s sustainable strategy. Sustainable development training needs to be central to leadership development programs in order to connect employees with the company’s values.

Next week’s article will look at the various sectors and the requirements, both from an educational and skills-set viewpoint.