29 Jan 2026
Some industries will need to transition to cleaner fuel, such as steel. Oil and gas will see some job losses and workers in these want support and training to move to equivalent jobs in other industries, such as the burgeoning offshore wind sector.
The UK will lose jobs if it does recognise the inevitability of technology change – from AI to electric vehicles – and invest in the future.
Who will lose out if the UK fails to invest in green jobs?
If the UK fails to invest in the industries of the future young people will lose out.
Research has shown the economic scarring impact of one year’s unemployment for an 18-20 year old is £42,000 - £133,000 over the next twenty years and youth unemployment can cost local authority areas £86 - £105 million in lost local earnings.
Also, if the government fails to manage the transition carefully workers in sectors such as oil & gas, automobiles, steel, etc. are at risk.
What can local authorities do to support green jobs?
Councils have an important role in education, including adult education. They need to work with Further Education providers to ensure the right courses are provided and people are aware of them. They also have an important economic development role and should assist the start-up and smaller businesses that will be the backbone of the new economy.
What can the government do to support green jobs?
The government has published a Clean Energy Plan which promises 400,000 extra jobs by 2030, with high demand for roles including plumbers, electricians and welders. It's plan includes measures to help oil and gas workers transition to new jobs.
The TUC said, “this represents a serious plan to start to rebuild our industrial heartlands and deliver quality jobs in clean energy - as well as supporting even more in supply chains right across the country”.
The plan now needs to be delivered. And a separate plan should be produced to build a workforce to help restore nature.
Who should pay for the shift to clean energy jobs?
This work is necessary if the UK is to have a strong economy for the future. It is important that it is funded by government.
Watch out for clean energy disinformation
Some people claim that the switch to clean energy will cost thousands of jobs. But more jobs will be created than lost. Change is happening and it’s understandable that people are worried about their future but with a proper transition and training plan in place workers will be able to benefit from new quality jobs. If the UK refuses to adapt to change it will lead to much greater job losses in the future.
Your voice matters
During elections politicians make more of an effort to listen. Tell them you care about climate change. Tell them you want action to ensure the UK wins out in the jobs for the future. Ask them to sign-up to Friends of the Earth’s Charter for Climate Hope.