Survey of oil workers shows barrier to a Just Transition

A survey by Friends of the Earth Scotland, Greenpeace and Platform of North Sea oil workers has shown that there are significant barriers preventing them from transitioning from their current job onto renewables.

More than 75% of those surveyed said they would be willing to make the move but that they’re are limited opportunities for them and limited retraining available.

The findings of the survey back up work done by prospect highlighting the need for a proper Just Transition in the energy sector.

Richard Hardy, Prospect’s Scottish National Secretary and member of Scotland’s Just Transition Commission, said:

“This is an important report with some worrying findings which highlight just how far we have yet to go to achieve any manner of Just Transition from fossil fuels to renewables.

“There is a wealth of skills in the North Sea oil industry, easily convertible to be applicable to renewable energy – all it needs is the will.

“Here in Scotland we have set up the Just Transition Commission which earlier in the year set out the need for immediate sector-specific plans – this report demonstrates that need further.

“If we wait until the last minute on this it will be too late. If we repeat the mistakes of previous generations in it is our economy and local communities that will pay the price.”