Young people risk being locked out the growing green economy, as research highlights significant barriers to accessing green skills and careers, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The findings were highlighted at the launch of Co-op’s £2m Green Opportunities Fund, managed by charitable arm, the Co-op Foundation.
The Fund will support initiatives helping young people build the skills, confidence and networks needed to access green jobs.
The Green Opportunities report identifies a range of common barriers preventing young people from entering green careers, including:
Limited awareness and understanding of green career pathways
Financial barriers and the cost of training or entry routes
Lack of local opportunities and exposure to green industries
Confidence and identity barriers, with some young people feeling green careers are “not for people like me”
These challenges risk reinforcing existing inequalities at a time when demand for workers is growing across sustainable farming, renewable energy, home retrofitting, electric vehicle infrastructure and nature restoration.
The findings correspond with earlier research commissioned by Co-op in 2023, Gen Z(ero): Creating a pathway to a greener, fairer future.
This showed that, while young people care deeply about climate change and want to be part of the transition to net zero, many have low awareness of how green jobs and the wider net-zero agenda connect to their own lives and futures.
That research also highlights that young people from lower-income backgrounds, ethnic minority communities and those with disabilities are more likely to face barriers to engagement and opportunity.
While the UK continuing to make progress in reducing carbon emissions, the Green Opportunities Report warns that failing to widen access to green skills and careers risks slowing progress and entrenching inequality, unless targeted action is taken to ensure the transition is fair and inclusive.
Supporting access
The Fund will be supported through the sale of compostable carrier bags at Co-op stores across the UK.
It is expected to support a range of activity, including training, mentoring, accredited programmes, community-led projects and partnerships with employers, including in food and farming.
Shirine Khoury-Haq, Group CEO of Co-op, said: “Young people care deeply about the environment, but too many feel green economy jobs are out of reach. At Co-op we’re committed to our Net Zero ambitions and believe talent is evenly distributed, but opportunities are not. That’s why investing in young people’s skills—from rural areas to inner cities—is key to backing Britain’s future.”
Katie White OBE MP, Minister for Climate, said: “I want young people to see energy system changes as career paths with the right skills. Thousands of skilled jobs are coming, and all backgrounds need clear access. Our Clean Energy Jobs Plan backs business with 400,000 jobs by 2030 across UK communities.”
Nick Crofts, CEO of Co-op Foundation, said: “I’m proud that not only have we used research to guide us where to focus this funding, but that we’ve worked with young people to develop this fund. We’re passionate that no decisions are made about young people, without young people.”
