The RHA's Position on Green Skills

The RHA (Road Haulage Association) believes that developing green skills across the logistics sector is essential to achieving the UK's net-zero ambitions while maintaining a resilient and efficient supply chain.

The transition to low and zero-emission vehicles, alternative fuels, new technologies, and sustainable operating practices will require a workforce equipped with new technical knowledge and competencies. From drivers and technicians to fleet managers and transport planners, employees across the industry must have access to the training and development needed to adapt to a changing transport landscape.

The RHA is calling for government, industry, training providers, and education institutions to work together to create a clear green skills strategy for logistics. This includes investment in training programmes, apprenticeships, upskilling opportunities, and support for businesses of all sizes to prepare their workforce for the future.


Why Action is Needed Now

The need to address green skills is urgent. The logistics sector is already facing significant workforce shortages, particularly in technical and engineering roles. At the same time, businesses are beginning to invest in low-carbon vehicles, charging and refuelling infrastructure, and new technologies. Without a suitably trained workforce, the pace of decarbonisation could be slowed, increasing costs and creating operational challenges for operators.

The transition to net zero is no longer a future challenge—it is happening now. Businesses need certainty, support, and access to skilled workers to make informed investment decisions. Failure to develop green skills risks creating a gap between policy ambitions and practical delivery.

By investing in green skills today, the UK can support economic growth, create high-quality jobs, strengthen supply chains, and ensure that the road transport sector remains competitive while delivering on environmental commitments.

The RHA is producing a report in September on this subject in order to help support the developement with industry and key stakeholders