A lack of so-called “green collar” workers is affecting the construction sector which could derail attempts to decarbonise the industry.

The need to create a supply of workers with skills in sustainability-related roles will be highlighted at an event in Glasgow at the end of this month.

Minister for Higher and Further Education, Graeme Dey will join delegates at Sustainabuild and will address the challenge of closing the green skills gap.

Mr Dey said: “To address the green building skills shortage, we must tackle the challenge from all angles to ensure that we harness the opportunities that the just transition to a green economy will unlock.

“This includes educating and training the future workforce for emerging green roles, attracting a diverse pool of talent to the construction sector, and supporting the re-skilling of labourers as we make the shift to more sustainable industries.

“Equally important is up-skilling existing professionals to meet the evolving demands of Net Zero delivery, in addition to encouraging and supporting employer investment in skills development and training for their workforce.

“I look forward to opening this important event with industry leaders, fostering collaboration and shared learning in green skills to drive meaningful progress in Scotland and beyond.”

A range of representatives from industry and academia will address delegates at Sustainabuild at The Social Hub in Glasgow on 30 January. It is delivered in partnership with The Verdancy Group, a provider of sustainability training and environmental consultancy, Brewster Brothers, NJS Lighting Solutions, IES, Timber Engineering UK and Building Relations PR.

The network of sustainably-driven building professionals has grown over the year and has hosted more than 13 events in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee and London.

Steven Kiakowski, director of The Verdancy Group, added: “Education and green skills are the foundation for delivering a sustainable future.

“While significant progress has already been made, there is still a substantial challenge ahead in addressing the scale of upskilling and training required to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry.

“From embracing emerging technologies to ensuring that individuals and organisations are equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver on sustainability goals, the journey is far from over.

“We must build on the foundations laid and accelerate our efforts to provide accessible, high-quality training that aligns with future industry ambitions and ensures we remain on track to achieve a greener, more sustainable future.”

Matt Colgan, Founder of Sustainabuild says: “Whilst we need to attract and equip a diverse future ‘green ready’ workforce, we don’t have time to wait for them to come through the education system if we are to be Net Zero by 2045.

“Enhancing skills and retraining our existing workforce can fill the gap but will not happen without significant industry collaboration and government support. 

‘For Scotland to continue to be a green building leader, it’s vital that we have the workforce we need to remain at the forefront of this challenge and encourage our industries to thrive.”