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Environmental Skills Programme to Boost 'New' Economy

The environmental sector is one of the strongest economic drivers for businesses in the South West and now a unique project, Strengthening the Environment Sector (SES), aims to equip companies and public sector agencies with the skills to compete effectively in this new ‘low carbon economy’.

Supported by the European Social Fund and the Skills Funding Agency, SES offers five programmes delivered through a partnership of regional organisations led by Cornwall College Business including Rezolve, Environmental Skills Network, Global Action Plan, Business Link for Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly, Devon and Somerset and the Cornwall Development Company.

Some of the courses are a response to government legislation, which encourages the generation of sustainable energy through micro-renewable technology as well as reducing the UK’s carbon footprint. SES flagship programmes, Planning for Energy and Carbon Management, aim to help businesses financially benefit as well as comply with legislation, resulting in real competitive advantage for organisations in the region.

Justin Olosunde responsible for Environmental Goods and Services at Cornwall College Business and who is leading the project said: “The environmental industry is set to play a key role in the South West’s economy and Strengthening the Environment Sector programmes are designed specifically to help businesses and public sector agencies increase profit, skills and knowledge as well as avoid penalties for carbon output.”

“The five programmes, which also include management and leadership training, are available at any Cornwall College location or at your workplace at a convenient time of day. SES programmes are not confined to Cornwall and can be delivered at locations across the UK.”

SES offers training up to degree level and is relevant for businesses and organisations of any size from the self-employed to large corporates like supermarkets or airports and public sector departments such as local authorities.

The Planning for Energy module will leave delegates with a clear idea of how renewable energy will support the economic future of their business as well as the financial and environmental benefits. It will also help companies make informed technical decisions about different technologies and choice of suppliers with practical advice to cut through any red tape.

East Cornwall based planning consultancy Situ8 Ltd is typical of the new breed of the knowledge based environment sector companies looking to benefit from the SES programme in a number of practical ways, including the ability to advise clients about micro-renewable energy. Lisa Solly, planning consultant at Situ8 Ltd said:

“Environmental legislation affecting the construction industry is continually being updated and it’s vital we are in a position to give the best advise to our clients and add real value.

The government’s new Feed In Tariff (FITs), which is covered by the SES Planning for Energy programme, will help to shape the way we power our homes and businesses in the future and will have major design and cost implications for the region’s developers.” 

The programme is funded by the European Social Fund as the environment sector was seen as an important growth sector for the region.

Justin Olosunde said: “We have been tremendously fortunate in acquiring this funding to set up such a unique project, which will equip our business community with skills to compete on a global level in this new industry. I hope people will take advantage of these programmes and make this region a world leader in the low carbon economy.”