Ecological transition : the HR challenges in the UK
Written by Laurene Vernay
When it comes to the green transition, HR managers are no longer satisfied with simply supporting change: they are expected to lead it. Whether redefining jobs, reskilling teams or rethinking recruitment, benefits and targets, HR must now become the strategic driver of climate resilience and workforce alignment. The green transition, like the digital revolution before it, is structurally reshaping organisations. Its impact is not only technological and operational, but also cultural, generational and profoundly human.
Concrete and quantified challenges
- According to the International Labour Organization, the ecological transition could generate up to 100 million new jobs worldwide by 2030, provided social inclusion is built into the process.
- The government in the UK has set a target of 2 million jobs in the ecological transition by the end of the decade, requiring massive reskilling and new talent strategies across sectors.
- 72% of Gen Z and 71% of millennials in the UK consider environmental credentials important when evaluating job offers.
- 46% of Gen Z and 42% of millennials report having already changed roles or plan to do so because of environmental concerns.
A Strategic HR Response to an Urgent Challenge
Given these challenges, our new white paper, The Focus of HR Challenges in the UK, aims at shedding light on the growing role of human resources in navigating the ecological transition. At a time when the UK is under increasing pressure to decarbonise its economy while tackling severe skills shortages, the report offers a timely roadmap.
Skills, purpose and climate: the new talent equation
Structured into three core chapters, this white paper aims to equip HR leaders with the insights and tools to act. It explores, throught current UK-specific data, expert interviews, and emerging best practices, :
- How working conditions must evolve in response to environmental risks such as extreme heat or resource scarcity
- How HR teams can contribute to their organisation’s decarbonisation trajectory
- How to foster collective engagement by embedding ecological values into workplace culture.
“The ecological transition is a workforce challenge. This white paper was designed to help HR professionals in the UK understand the scale of transformation ahead and take action with clarity and purpose.” Gabriella West, Head of UK & US Climate School, AXA Climate
From risk to opportunity: HR as a catalyst for transformation
In a context where 4 million workers will need to be requalified for green economy needs by 2035, this report calls for immediate action. HR professionals are uniquely positioned to help companies move from reactive compliance to proactive adaptation. That means :
- integrating sustainability into employer branding
- designing climate-conscious benefits and wellness programmes
- embedding ecological considerations into organisational culture.
We believe that, as the ecological transition accelerates, Human Resources has a unique opportunity to drive lasting change. Strategic ESG integration isn’t just the next step : it’s the foundation of tomorrow’s workforce.
