Prospect and the environment
Prospect has a proud tradition of leadership and activity on environmental issues. We have helped to shape policies and action at a UK level through the Trades Union Congress, and internationally through our global union federations.
Climate change is a major issue for trade unions because:
- the move to a low-carbon economy has massive implications for jobs
- it has huge economic consequences
- it is linked to many Prospect policies, eg international development
- it has implications for the working environment.
As a union, Prospect is uniquely well placed to make a significant contribution in combating the dangers of climate change. Members in the Met Office, research councils, the Environment Agency, the energy sector and many other areas have a scientific or professional expertise and a common concern to address the most serious threat to the future of life on our planet.
Prospect's general secretary Paul Noon is joint chair of the Trade Union Sustainable Development Advisory Committee (TUSDAC) - the main forum for consultation between government and trade unions on sustainable development and environmental issues. Through TUSDAC we have made an input to major policy issues such as sustainable employment, the European Emissions Trading Scheme and climate change legislation, and initiatives including training and facilities for environmental representatives.
Putting policies into practice
Green your workplace
Our guide to greening the workplace contains practical advice for Prospect reps and members, on how to make positive changes at work - with employers, members and in the wider community.
Environment and energy network
We have an informal network which enables members with an expertise or interest in the environment and energy to make contact and exchange information.
Environmental policy objectives and action plan
As an employer, Prospect has drawn up a set of environmental policy objectives and an action plan. Progress is being monitored by a network of 'green champions' - staff from across the organisation who have volunteered to take the lead among their teams and departments.
Members in the environment/food industry
Prospect represents thousands of members working in this area - see the industry pages of our site for more information.
Downloadable resources
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12 February 2013
Climate change is one of the biggest and most urgent challenges across the world. Skilled young people are needed to devise solutions and help society to adapt successfully. The WorldSkills UK environmental science competition provides an opportunity to showcase your problem solving and practical abilities against other teams from across the UK. You can find out more about the 2013 competition at bit.ly/YAAIYF Hear what previous finalists gained from their experience at bit.ly/worldskills_video2011 Entries for the 2013 competition are open until 22 March 2013. Online heats will be held between 25 March and 15 May. Top scoring teams will be invited to the 3-day competition final at The Skills Show, to be held at the LG Arena (NEC) in Birmingham from 14-16 November 2013.
12 September 2011
This leaflet explains why the government's cavalier disregard for expert advice on the environment and green investment undermines its claim to be "the greenest government ever".
29 June 2011
The Forestry Commission trade unions, including Prospect, have submitted a response to the Commons Science & Technology Select Committee inquiry examining forest research as part of the ongoing monitoring of the Spending Review 2010.
02 June 2011
A leaflet outlining how Prospect can help you improve environmental performance in the workplace. Includes useful tips, contacts and links.
19 April 2011
MAE PROSPECT YN CREDU BOD BUDDSODDI MEWN GWYDDONIAETH, PEIRIANNEG A THECHNOLEG yn hanfodol ar gyfer adfywiad economaidd a gweithio i sicrhau dyfodol gwyrddach. Dylai’r buddsoddiad hwn adeiladu ar Gweledigaeth Strategol ar gyfer Gwyddorau, Peirianneg a Thechnoleg Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru, gan gynnwys y blaenoriaethau gwyddorau iechyd/bywyd, yr economi carbon isel ac adfywiad cymdeithasol a nodwyd yn y weledigaeth honno.
07 April 2011
Prospect members will be asking election candidates to read and sign their 10-point plan for Welsh science which says investment in science, engineering and technology is crucial for economic recovery and for making the transition to a sustainable greener future.
05 April 2011
Prospect members will be asking election candidates to read and sign their 10-point plan for Scottish science which says investment in science, engineering and technology is crucial for economic recovery and for making the transition to a sustainable greener future.
03 March 2011
Part of the I'm Not A Number campaign – Sue Benham is an expert in applied environmental science. Tackling climate change – and reducing CO2 emissions – is one of the biggest challenges we face. The UK’s climate scientists play a vital role in monitoring change and seeking solutions
30 September 2009
This briefing outlines key findings from the survey the Labour Research Department (LRD) conducted of union representatives on climate change and the environment for the TUC. It highlights strong similarities, but also some differences, between the experiences of Prospect reps and the wider trade union movement.
30 July 2009
Young scientists prioritise tidal barrage and biomass generation in competition to save planet earth