NEW research has suggested that a lack of knowledge and a critical need for upskilling is needed in order to help the country reduce its carbon footprint and meet decarbonisation goals.
That’s according to a new study by Skillnet Climate Ready Academy, University of Limerick, and 20FIFTY Partners, titled The Breaking Boundaries: Building Capacity to Manage Sustainable Supply Chains.
The study found that “a lack of knowledge across industries, policymaking bodies, and regulatory bodies” has “hindered” progress in delivering decarbonisation solutions in Ireland.
It further argued that global corporate supply chains “must embrace decarbonisation” to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and reach Ireland’s climate action targets.
The report outlined that “upskilling employees is a crucial first step in addressing the knowledge gap surrounding Scope 3 emissions”.
Scope 3 emissions are a category of greenhouse gas emission resulting from travel, commuting, and waste disposal.
The report suggested “supply chain complexity, data challenges, and cost concerns” as leading barriers in preventing companies from engaging fully in decarbonisation efforts.
To bridge gaps towards decarbonisation, researchers identified streamlining regulatory processes, government and EU investment in tools and incentives, and investments in responsible sourcing and sustainable transport strategies as key in assisting companies take the step.
Skillnet Climate Ready Academy director Maria Kelly said that “the ability to manage and reduce Scope 3 emissions is becoming critical for companies aiming to meet sustainability targets”.
“Education and skills development will be instrumental in helping companies build capacity to overcome these barriers and manage their supply chains. It will not be easy and will take time, but the most forward-thinking corporations are already undertaking this effort.”
Mark Jordan, Skillnet Ireland Chief Strategy Officer, emphasised the importance of talent development in driving decarbonisation.
“Supply chain decarbonisation presents both an urgent challenge, and an opportunity for businesses. This research confirms that knowledge and skills development are essential for businesses seeking to remain competitive while embracing greener practices,” he said.
