The Global Green Skills In The Lubricants Industry
As nations worldwide commit to ambitious climate targets, the demand for workers with green skills, those that directly combat effects of the climate change, is surging across various industries.
According to LinkedIn’s 2024 Green Skills Report, while the global average of job postings requiring green skills stands at 7.7%, this figure is expected to rise as industries adapt to the urgent need for sustainability.
The lubricants industry, in particular, is undergoing a significant transformation as it shifts toward more sustainable practices.
The Growing Demand for Green Talent
The global demand for green talent increased 11.6% from 2023-2024, while the supply of skilled workers has only grown by 5.6%. This discrepancy highlights a pressing need for a workforce equipped with skills that align with sustainability objectives. LinkedIn data indicates that by 2050, the global green talent pool must more than double to meet projected demands.
But what about the lubricants industry?
The lubricants industry is now at a crossroads, increasingly adopting eco-friendly alternatives such as biodegradable and carbon-neutral lubricants. These innovations not only reduce environmental impact but also require specialised knowledge and skills that are currently in short supply.
Key Green Skills in the Lubricants Sector
The transition to greener lubricants also necessitates a diverse set of skills across various domains:
- Sustainability Research: Understanding environmental impacts and developing sustainable practices.
- Pollution Prevention: Implementing strategies to reduce emissions and waste associated with lubricant production and use.
- Renewable Energy Generation: Knowledge of integrating renewable energy sources into manufacturing processes.
- Product Development: Skills in formulating biodegradable and low-toxicity lubricants that meet performance standards without harming the environment.
Moreover, as traditional industries like lubricants pivot towards greener practices, workers with transferable skills from these sectors can play a crucial role in this transition. However, an impending retirement wave may exacerbate the skills gap; according to the Lubricants Talent Report 2024, 42% of lubricant professionals were aged 55 or older. This data paints a concerning picture of an industry that is at risk of losing a substantial portion of its experienced workforce in the next two decades.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the clear demand for green skills, a significant gap exists globally. A recent survey indicated that many businesses feel unprepared for the transition to a sustainable future due to this skills shortage. Additionally, the lubricants industry faces unique challenges:
- Performance Concerns: Eco-friendly lubricants must match or exceed the performance of traditional products to gain wider acceptance.
- Cost Implications: Transitioning to greener alternatives can involve higher upfront costs, which may deter some companies from making changes.
- Training Needs: There is an urgent need for educational initiatives focused on green skills development. This includes partnerships between businesses and educational institutions to create tailored training programs.
Encouragingly, there is a growing interest among workers in pursuing careers in sustainability. Surveys show that nearly three-quarters of school leavers globally are interested in green career paths. This enthusiasm presents an opportunity for companies within the lubricants industry to invest in upskilling their workforce.
Ready for a sustainable future?
The lubricants industry stands at a pivotal moment as it embraces eco-friendly practices amidst increasing global demand for green skills.
Achieving climate goals will require not only innovative products, but also a skilled workforce ready to meet these challenges. As industries worldwide adapt to this new reality, fostering education and training in green skills will be essential for bridging the gap between supply and demand.
By investing in their workforce today, lubricant organisations can ensure they are well-positioned to thrive in a sustainable future while contributing positively to global climate efforts.
