In today’s changing business landscape, sustainability is no longer a peripheral concern, it is a core strategy for long-term success.
With increasing regulatory requirements, consumer demand for ethical practices, and the impacts of climate change, businesses are rethinking their approaches to growth and operations. In Surrey, the focus on sustainability has never been greater, and equipping the workforce with the right skills has become a pressing priority.
This is where Surrey County Council’s Sustainability and Carbon Management Skills Bootcamp, delivered by Activate Learning, plays a pivotal role. By fostering local talent and providing essential sustainability training, this initiative is bridging the gap between business needs and workforce readiness.
Why sustainability skills matter
Sustainability isn’t just about environmental stewardship; it is a business imperative that drives innovation, enhances reputation, and improves financial performance. A significant majority of executives recognise the importance of sustainability but many feel their organisations are not adequately prepared to address it*.
Key sustainability competencies for businesses include:
- Carbon management: understanding and reducing carbon footprints to meet net-zero targets
- Circular economy principles: designing processes to reduce waste and promote recycling
- Sustainability reporting: communicating progress transparently to stakeholders
- Regulatory compliance: navigating an increasingly complex legal landscape.
These skills not only help companies meet their environmental goals but also position them as leaders in a competitive market where sustainability is a key differentiator.
Skills Bootcamp’s role in developing local talent and supporting Surrey businesses
Offering a flexible and blended course has enabled those learners already employed to apply their learning quicker, through the development of bespoke sustainability action plans for their organisations. The real-world expertise from industry leaders, including organisations such as Oxfordshire Greentech and Siemens Healthineers, combined with networking and career support from Activate Learning, has boosted the learners’ confidence and employability.
For businesses in Surrey, the Skills Bootcamps offer numerous benefits:
- Access to skilled talent: With a growing pool of trained professionals, companies can find the expertise they need locally, reducing the costs and time associated with recruitment
- Enhanced competitiveness: In this case, sustainability-trained employees drive innovation and efficiency, giving businesses a competitive edge
- Community impact: By investing in local talent, businesses strengthen Surrey’s economy and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Albury Vineyard, located in the Surrey Hills, recently hosted the graduation for learners of the first Sustainability Skills Bootcamp. Nick Wenman, owner of Albury Vineyard, said
“Skills Bootcamps are really great because what they mean is we are not just hiring people with theoretical knowledge – it’s people with real understanding of what that means in a business environment”.
A brighter, greener future for Surrey
As sustainability becomes integral to business success, courses like this Skills Bootcamp are vital for preparing the workforce and supporting local businesses. By developing the skills needed to tackle environmental challenges, Surrey is not only meeting the demands of today but also securing a resilient and prosperous future.
Whether you’re a business looking to strengthen your sustainability efforts or an individual eager to make an impact, find out more about Skills Bootcamps.
Also remember to check-out our Business Surrey events page, which features a number of sustainability-related events.
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*Reference: Deloitte’s 2024 CxO Sustainability Report, which surveyed over 2,100 executives across 27 countries.