It’s no secret that the climate emergency is so great that we need to switch gears now. The study presented by EnviroCompétences, a sector-based environmental working committee, is clear: to electrify our grid, convert our energy, develop our territories in a sustainable way or optimize waste management, we need workers with the necessary know-how.
Adapting to this new reality is what the Quebec government has committed to by adopting its plan for a greener economy by 2030. If that commitment is commendable, the bet on Quebec’s green transition isn’t over yet.
By 2030, the green transition will result in significant job growth in Quebec. What has long been good news is now cause for concern. All sectors of the economy are shattered and struggling to simply sustain their activities due to this unprecedented labor shortage. If no one has the skills to set up and operate new technologies and practices, the green transition is at risk. Collectively, we cannot afford such a failure.
transition for everyone
The green turn goes far beyond creating jobs: the challenge of completely converting the trades is also daunting. “Green Skills” will no longer be limited to “Green Jobs”. Examples abound: Mechanics need to learn to work with new propulsion systems such as lithium batteries, construction workers need to acquire skills for installing novel heating and cooling systems that are less energy intensive, while those working in the management of residual materials will continue to evolve in symbiosis with the development of the circular economy and its imperatives.
collective challenge
This crucial period of change requires a concerted effort to adapt the labor market to the needs of industry and society in general. Workers need to acquire new skills to adapt to new jobs, while employers need to invest in training and skills development to meet the challenges of the energy transition.
Governments, employers, unions and citizens must work together to meet the green transition challenge. Quebec must be ready to take on this challenge together to be successful in the energy transition bet. Concern must become excitement. It is now necessary to start developing the tools to fully understand the labor market, facilitate mobility and have a “workforce reflex” on any program or measure put in place.
Photo courtesy of EnviroCompétences
Dominique Dodier, Managing Director of EnviroCompétences