As 2025 begins, millions of UK workers are considering a shift towards green careers. Recent research by green energy specialists 100Green reveals that as many as 15 million workers could seek green jobs this year, as the UK rushes to meet its net-zero targets for 2050.

A study by 100Green surveyed 1,000 UK adults to gauge attitudes towards green jobs. The findings indicate that 71% of working Brits are interested in moving into the green sector, equating to approximately 24 million workers based on national employment figures. Of these, 64% hope to make the transition in 2025, reflecting a strong demand for environmentally focused roles.

The motivation behind this interest includes the appeal of contributing to climate change mitigation and adapting to sustainable practices. Despite this enthusiasm, competition for green roles may be intense, with the number of green job seekers likely to surpass the availability of positions.

Limited Opportunities Highlighted

100Green also analysed job listings using 173 green-related keywords, including “sustainability,” “renewable,” and “climate.” Their research found 757,938 green jobs advertised on the Adzuna platform as of November 2024. If this rate continues, an estimated 9 million green job postings could become available in 2025 – well below the anticipated demand from workers seeking such roles.

Despite the growing interest, many workers feel constrained by limited opportunities in the sector. Nearly half (40%) of survey respondents cited a perceived lack of green jobs as a barrier, while 38% pointed to insufficient local availability and a lack of knowledge about what constitutes a green job.

Addressing the Green Skills Gap

The study highlighted a significant green skills gap in the UK, with many workers feeling underqualified for these roles. A third of respondents said they lacked the skills required, and 26% felt they did not have enough experience. This gap is particularly pronounced in technical areas like engineering, retrofitting, and waste management, but “soft skills” such as creativity, adaptability, and empathy are also in demand.

Doug Stewart, Chairman at 100Green, emphasised the importance of upskilling. He said, “There is a clear gap in the ‘hard’ green skills needed to progress into some industries. More investment is needed in public awareness, green apprenticeships, and training initiatives to address this gap.”

Stewart also highlighted the value of transferable skills for entering the green sector. Many roles, from customer service to finance, contribute indirectly to sustainability goals. For job seekers, acquiring sustainability literacy or pursuing courses to enhance technical skills can serve as a pathway into green careers.

A Broader View of Green Roles

Stewart noted that not all green roles require specialised expertise.

“Much is made of the green ‘industry,’ but it’s not as distinct as that,” he said. “Companies require staff in various roles – from data management to accounts—who bring skills learned outside the green sector but are crucial to business operations.”

By taking on roles with sustainability-related responsibilities, workers can build their experience and position themselves for future opportunities in the expanding green economy.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As the UK strives to meet its net-zero goals, the demand for green jobs is expected to grow, offering opportunities across industries. However, addressing barriers such as the green skills gap and improving awareness of available roles will be essential to meeting the ambitions of millions of workers seeking to contribute to a sustainable future.

For those entering the job market in 2025, investing in education and upskilling will be key to accessing these roles and building a career that supports the UK’s environmental goals.