Enabling the Workforce Through Green Skills: CanADAPT, the Canadian Example

The sustainability transition requires green skills which are defined by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization as “the knowledge, abilities, values and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society.” In 2021, Statistics Canada estimated that 314,257 jobs were attributable to the environmental and clean technology products sector, up 6.5% from 2020. To go beyond strategy, the skills gap remains to be the main barrier for lack of sustainability implementation. The increased demand for green skills needs to be met with a workforce who not only have the required skills but are given the opportunity to engage in meaningful implementation of sustainability action plans.

While Canada’s education system falls under the purview of the provinces and territories, federal initiatives are enabling the development and delivery of green skills training. CanADAPT is a prime example by serving as a capacity-building hub for training, education, communities of practice, and information resources. Notably, the Climate Adaptation Competency Framework provides a practical approach to ensure individuals and teams have the expertise to performance climate adaptation job functions. It is also helpful for identifying skills gaps and monitoring performance of organizations offering climate adaptation services.

Having the green skills to implement sustainability strategies, however, only fulfills one component of addressing sustainability risks and opportunities. Complex challenges and staying ahead of the market require a focus on scaling and commercializing research outputs and innovations. Amazon’s Science Exchange is a great example of how implementing the latest innovations through the focus on research and development can accelerate much-needed sustainability solutions. Importantly, industry-specific knowledge of the sustainability risks and opportunities can help guide which solutions would be feasible and effective in achieving sustainability goals.

While the link between innovation and sustainability is clear, the latest Global Innovation Index highlights that research, and its commercialization are lacking for climate change solutions. Organizations developing or implementing their sustainability strategy should consider whether they have access to research and development abilities with industry experience which will allow them to effectively reach their objectives with a clear return on investment.

Wilson & Wilbur Sustainability Team