A NEW ‘net zero’ qualification will help Wales meet its carbon neutral targets and train the next generation of sustainable business leaders.

Agored Cymru has created the Level 3 Diploma in Energy and Carbon Management, a course focused on developing the skills and knowledge required to operate systems and processes of energy consumption and carbon emissions within an organisation and the environment, both locally and globally.

Modules include Analysis of Energy Consumption and Carbon Emissions, Health and Safety in an Energy Management Environment, Energy Procurement, Waste Management, Community Engagement and more, targeting behavioural change and best practice.

Designed in collaboration with ACT and Educ8 Training, Agored Cymru is confident the qualification will support and guide private and public sector organisations in the management of energy and their own carbon footprints.

Judith Archer, Head of Product Development at Agored Cymru, said: “A lot of work has gone into making this a future-proof qualification that can grow given advances in technology and in line with the Welsh Government’s net zero plans, effectively looking to develop the skills needed for this and future generations.

“It’s so important the qualification applies to businesses and organisations of all sizes, and as part of an apprenticeship it is also a flexible way in which to gain qualifications which benefit not only the individual but the workplace too.”

Simone Hawken, Qualifications Manager at Educ8, added: “The programme equips learners with the necessary knowledge, understanding and skills to enable them to become more sustainable and energy efficient at work and at home.

“Global emissions are as high as they have ever been, and this qualification is key in helping us all to work and live more sustainably in future.”

The equivalent of an A Level, the course will play a big part in ensuring Wales becomes a net zero nation by 2050, in line with Welsh Government targets.

Matthew Burnett, ACT’s Head of Operations and Contracts, says the partnership between hybrid technology, engineering and education will support that vision.

“All public sector organisations will have an environmental lead and every small business will also need these skills because the requirements to be sustainable will become more rigorous,” he said.

“The aspiration is that employees will gain new skills that are increasingly important as we drive towards net zero and, in turn, they will be able to share their skills and knowledge to colleagues so that more people are aware of carbon footprints and net zero.”

Visit www.agored.cymru or call 01248 670011 and 02920 747866 for more information on the Level 3 Diploma in Energy and Carbon Management and other qualifications available via Agored Cymru.

NOTES: Based in Bangor and Cardiff, Agored Cymru is an awarding body and access validating agency, developing bilingual qualifications, bespoke accreditation and services for education and training providers in Wales and beyond. Regulated by Qualifications Wales (QW), Ofqual and The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), their flexible and accessible bilingual qualifications are widely recognised, valued and respected by the education sector, training providers and employers.

Established in 1988, ACT has been delivering a long list of training programmes, short courses and qualifications that help people reach their full potential. From Jobs Growth Wales+ to apprenticeships and higher apprenticeships across 30 different sectors. To find out more, email info@acttraining.org.uk or call 029 2270 7070.

A renowned Welsh apprenticeship and training provider, Educ8 offers fully funded apprenticeships and learning opportunities across a wide range of sectors, including Energy and Carbon Management. Businesses and learners looking to boost their skillsets can find out more by calling 01443 749000 or visit the website: www.educ8training.co.uk.