BUILDINGS, MAINTENANCE & REFURBISHMENT
Paving the way for a just transition to net zero in education
Education Today hears from CAT CLARKSON, Sustainability Manager at GRAHAM. A
s the UK’s education sector strives to reach net zero by 2050, the journey has often focused on the technical side of decarbonisation, yet it is vital to transition to net zero in a way that is fair and inclusive to all. Central to this approach is the concept of a ‘just transition’, defined by the IPCC as a “set of principles, processes and practices aimed at ensuring that no people, workers, places, sectors, countries or regions are left behind in the move from a high-carbon to a low-carbon economy”. This idea, rooted in justice, equity and wellbeing, was referenced in the Paris Agreement and in recent speeches from the UN Secretary-General ahead of COP29.
We strongly advocate for this approach in the education sector, building schools that meet net zero standards and prepare students and communities for a more sustainable future. This is particularly critical now, with the government announcing a new target at COP29 to cut the UK’s emissions by 81% by 2035 – signalling an imminent transition away from gas-based systems and the emergence of new sustainable technologies and green jobs. This shift will impact the employability of skilled workers, gas engineers among them, highlighting the importance of reskilling and upskilling to meet the demands of a growing green economy.
Education is vital for transformation Delivering a just transition to a green economy is an ambitious goal that requires a collaborative and inclusive approach to equitably achieve net zero goals. Aiming to help progress such a transition within the education sector, we take a multifaceted approach. At a building level, this means creating energy-efficient schools with net zero operational targets, integrating features like heat pumps, mechanical ventilation, and solar panels. Equally important is educating students about sustainable practices, empowering them with the skills they need to manage high-
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performing buildings in the future. Additionally, working closely with our supply chain to ensure they have access to the right skills to transition along with us and make a meaningful contribution to the built environment and society. There are 640,000 green jobs in the UK, growing four times faster than the overall employment rate. As part of our work, we champion various social value initiatives that target re-education and upskilling opportunities to accommodate demand for skilled workers in green jobs. In partnership with subcontractors, we offer training programmes and practical construction exposure that helps fill gaps in the workforce. In parallel, our CRE8 programme opens pathways for underrepresented groups to embark on construction careers, building inclusivity from the ground up. A just transition is a journey, rather than a destination, and one that should bring everyone along.
Embarking on the net zero journey together The road to net zero for the UK’s school estate presents unique challenges, from spatial constraints and balancing biodiversity with carbon targets to providing adequate green space. Grid decarbonisation is another critical factor and, with a new government target for a green power grid by 2030, next-generation technologies will be needed to reduce grid capacity pressures. Overcoming these challenges calls for cross- sector collaboration, breaking down siloes and filling the knowledge gap, so that social and technical experts can work in unison towards shared goals. Skills development, education and social inclusivity must be at the heart of the net zero journey.
Our approach includes measures like installing educational signage and teaching pupils about energy conservation, such as using solar gains to manage heat in classrooms. Environmental impact and wellbeing are interlinked, and good
school design prioritises both, ensuring fit-for- purpose, comfortable and supportive learning facilities. Taking it a step further, we partner with schools on design competitions to create green spaces, promoting hands-on learning about the circular economy and biodiversity. For example, we had tremendous success at St Matthias School in Wolverhampton, where students presented their design ideas and created the winning entry, gaining practical experience on a real-world construction project. We helped bring their vision to life and even employed one student as an apprentice.
Social value is a core tenet of a just transition, comprising elements such as local supplier engagement, volunteering days and apprenticeships. Following any project completion, we measure social value as well as tracking a range of building performance metrics, to assess the wider impact of our projects. With our supply chain, we provide training, mock-ups, toolbox talks, and knowledge-sharing sessions to equip them with the necessary skills to deliver high quality, sustainable construction projects. For instance, applying Passivhaus principles for airtightness improves building efficiency, a skill our partners can use on future projects, creating a ripple effect that encourages more sustainable practices across the sector. Sharing insights, experiences and lessons from projects is hugely beneficial and something that should be embraced across the industry to accelerate decarbonisation.
A broader cultural shift, regulatory guidance, and an emphasis on education can transform how we deliver sustainable education projects in the UK. As an industry, we are making positive strides, but more action is needed to reach climate targets on time. Paving the way for a just transition in education will ensure no one is left behind.
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