Occupational and Skills Needs in the Green Building Sector in the Philippines

Abstract

The PHILGBC and the ILO have conducted a study that seeks to understand the occupational and skills needs in the green building sector in the Philippines. Decision makers, both in the public and private sector need to understand that matching the growing interest in greener buildings with competent skills is important to ensure sustained growth of demand for green building. Currently, green building is seen to have the highest potential to solve most of the environmental challenges in developing countries.In the study conducted, most respondents indicate that there is a strong need to understand the role buildings play in the environment and the economy in order to give significant attention to greening of new and existing buildings. The BERDE Green Building Rating System is a tool to guide professionals in designing buildings and is key in measuring environmental performance. It will require significant skills upgrade of professionals and of the skilled and semi-skilled workforce. The study has found that developing “specialist courses” for both building professionals and the labor force will help facilitate a smoother transition to green collar work.