Energy conference tackles climate change and equality

UNISON’s energy service group today held the first UNISON conference to take place online. But after vice president James Anthony (pictured above) had explained this, delegates were more concerned with trying to make history of a different kind, with an agenda that was dominated by the struggles against climate change and for equality. Angela Greenhalgh, the chair of the national energy committee, spoke briefly of the impact of COVID-19 on the sector, with the loss of jobs a serious concern. They were subjects that would come up throughout conference. Ms Greenhalgh observed that there was a vital need “for new ways to recruit in a virtual world”. Proposing the first motion to address the climate challenge, on behalf of the national committee, she said that the UK government’s plan to move to net zero by 2050 was an “ambitious target” and a welcome one – not least because of the intended creation of 250,000 jobs. However, there seemed to be no strategy as to how these jobs would be filled, she said. Ms Greenhalgh observed that with an increasing need for qualified workers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) jobs, a campaign was needed to get rid of the idea that such courses and careers are not for women. And there also needed to be work done to “educate consumers” to gain their “buy in” to greener energy. Conference called on the national committee to undertake a range of work, including to: ensure that UNISON energy members&#...
Source: UNISON Health and safety news - Category: Occupational Health Authors: Tags: Article News 2021 Energy Conference Source Type: news