Embarking on a green energy revolution comes with challenges, especially for the hardworking individuals who will bring this vision to life. As the UK gears up for a cleaner energy future, it’s essential to spotlight not just the infrastructure but also the very source of that effort: the people behind the tools.

The UK’s ambitious Labor government aims to transition to a low-carbon energy supply by 2030. This monumental task involves expanding the energy infrastructure at a pace never seen before, essentially doubling the amount of pylons, cables, and substations constructed in the last decade.

Construction workers, who comprise a vital part of the workforce, are set to play a critical role. With more than 2.3 million individuals in the sector, they will be essential for connecting new wind farms in northern Scotland and the North Sea to homes and businesses across Great Britain.

Yet, beneath the surface of this green initiative lies a pressing concern. Recent statistics reveal that construction workers face a suicide risk three times higher than the national average for men. Scholars have noted a troubling “toxic workplace culture” in the industry, stemming from cutthroat competition and relentless performance demands.

Going green, feeling blue

The transition to renewable energy will undoubtedly place additional stress on construction workers, who already contend with long hours and tight deadlines. In response, our report published in July 2024 underscores the urgent need for collaboration among government agencies, large infrastructure stakeholders, and construction partners to address worker well-being effectively.

While some major infrastructure firms offer support services like counseling and financial guidance for their own employees, the majority of workers—often self-employed or part of small construction firms—do not benefit from such resources. In fact, over 96% of construction companies employ fewer than 15 people, leaving many workers without adequate support networks.

Some larger firms have made commendable efforts to extend wellness initiatives to smaller contractors. However, the competitive nature of the industry typically prioritizes cost-cutting, resulting in minimal engagement with mental health initiatives.

Infrastructure owners can foster improvements by adopting procurement practices that prioritize the well-being of workers. Research conducted by experts in project management has shown that traditional top-down approaches to health and safety are ineffective in securing the mental well-being of workers. Instead, organizations must cultivate an environment where workers feel comfortable voicing their struggles and suggesting solutions.

The construction industry also faces a growing skills shortage as it strives to meet the demands of the green transition. Projections indicate that an additional 50,300 workers will be needed annually over the next five years to sustain the expected workload. Complicating matters further is the aging workforce, with experienced professionals nearing retirement, creating potential gaps in expertise.

To positively impact the mental health and well-being of a diverse workforce, employers must prioritize direct engagement with workers. This effort extends beyond technical training; it necessitates a thorough understanding of how to support workers amid the increasing pressures to achieve net-zero emissions.

Further research and collaboration between infrastructure owners and major contractors could offer valuable insights for other sectors, such as transport and agriculture, that will also face these challenges. The need to balance technical advancements with a focus on workforce welfare is crucial for the success of the green transition.

Ultimately, this transformation is about more than replacing outdated technology. It’s about nurturing the well-being of those who make it happen. A successful clean power future relies on addressing both the technical and social aspects of this monumental shift.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.