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The transition to a low-carbon, resource efficient and green economy can only be made by developing the right skills, knowledge and competencies. Such skills can be defined as “the knowledge, abilities, values and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society”. In countries that rely on energy- and emissions intensive activities, the transition towards a green economy might induce severe adjustment costs, both economically and socially. The structural economic changes required for the shift to a green economy will necessitate careful planning and effective implementation at the local level.
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While much attention has been paid to the need to transition to a green economy, there has been relatively less policy focus on the need to build the skills in the labour force to facilitate this shift. This chapter outlines the case for green skills and the impact of transitioning to sustainable production on local labour markets, with particular reference to Flanders, Belgium.
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This chapter examines Flanders’ capacity to transition to a green economy using the framework of the OECD’s Green Growth Indicators. It analyses the socio-economic context and the resources, asset base, labour market situation in both the Flemish region and in Belgium, and benchmarks these indicators to European counterparts.
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This chapter explores the governance and implementation arrangements in place to promote sustainable skills and employment in Flanders, Belgium. It analyses policy developments with particular reference to the structure of the education system and the labour market, and investigates the role of public agencies in facilitating green initiatives at the local level.
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This chapter examines sector-specific practices in three major industries in Flanders, namely the agro-food, building and chemicals sectors, with respect to building green skills and promoting long-term and sustainable green practices. Primary evidence on the priorities in each industry are examined with reference to perceptions of current and future skills needs.
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This chapter provides specific advice for developing green skills in local labour markets in Flanders, Belgium. Learnings from the mechanisms used to address green skills challenges in other countries are presented as examples for future policy makers. Specific recommendations for policy makers at the regional (Flanders) level and the local level are presented alongside recommendations for local businesses in order to present the best method of developing green skills in the local area. Adapting education and skills policies and initiatives for the green economy transition.
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