Over the last few months we have completed our annual survey, during which we heard from over 140 Dorset businesses of all sizes. They told us:
Half of Dorset businesses have a good understanding of Net Zero targets
Three quarters of businesses have started planning transition to Net Zero, but most had not measured their carbon footprint (63%, no change in last two years). The survey suggested it was not businesses highest priority and told us that without regulation or incentives their behaviour is unlikely to change.
Do businesses understand their Net Zero skills needs?
Only a third of businesses felt their staff had the skills / knowledge to meet Net Zero, concerningly there has been no change to that number since our first survey in 2023. Bigger businesses who have employed specialists, or who work in Net Zero understand the skills need well, but most business leaders couldn’t articulate the skills needed.
While few had done specific training, a third of businesses are interested in training, especially if it is funded.
Net Zero skills courses are available
Free short courses and events to raise awareness and support businesses in Net Zero and ESG planning are available via BCP Council and Dorset Council. Low Carbon Dorset provides free energy saving advice and grant funding to help local organisations reduce their carbon emissions and save on energy costs.
Local Skills Improvement Fund funded training for green construction and engineering has been made available with Bournemouth and Poole College and Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College. Bournemouth and Poole College is launching new facilities with its new Green Skills Centre for Building Services in April 2025.
Embedding Net Zero understanding and skills into education and training
In the training sector, sustainability training has been delivered to over 100 tutors and education staff so this knowledge and skills can be embedded into all courses helping to upskill all on Net Zero knowledge, skills and behaviours.
Financially prepared for change?
The number of businesses who feel financially prepared to lower their carbon footprint has increased to 50%, but in general, smaller businesses tend to feel less prepared.
To view the full findings from the report or see support available for organisations visit the Dorset Chamber website: www.dorsetchamber.co.uk/lsip/finding