Cumbria has a key role to play in tackling the climate and nature emergencies. But does the region have the skilled workforce to deliver the progress needed in the next decade?
There is enormous potential for new jobs in energy efficiency, low-carbon heating, solar power, and offshore wind across the county as we transition to a low carbon economy. Investing in these sectors could bring huge social and economic benefits to both the local community and the climate.
Based on analysis of a youth survey conducted between August – October 2021, we have produced a new report reflecting on the aspirations of young people in Cumbria and their interest in green job opportunities.
For me and many young people who call Cumbria home there are many things to love about the place we come from – the landscape, the community, the culture. For all of these reasons, I would like to remain in Cumbria for as long as I can. But jobs, especially sustainable jobs, are currently in short supply. I will most likely have to leave Cumbria to access the job I want to do; yet many young people would choose to stay here, working with our communities or our land, if the jobs were available.
The provision of green jobs in Cumbria is a necessity not only in order to provide young people with the secure and stable careers they want, but to provide the jobs we need in order to transition to a sustainable, green economy.
Throughout my time in education, I was offered little information about the potential for green careers in the area. Young people need to be given chances to learn about the opportunities and apprenticeships available to them.
The survey tells us that there is a clear appetite amongst young people to gain more understanding of green jobs opportunities in areas such as renewable energy, and agriculture, forestry and land management. Also, young people have high aspirations for future earnings, raising the question of whether these aspirations can be met locally.
The climate crisis, and the scope of the action we need in order to tackle it, can often feel overwhelming. However, we can start to make a difference by taking local steps such as the ones recommended at the end of this report and providing green jobs and education opportunities to young people across Cumbria.
Isabella Bridgman, youth climate activist
Access report here
You can view videos of what green jobs and how they benefit our communities here