Climate change is complex, urgent, and often, misunderstood. Yet it is only through sufficient understanding and awareness that individuals can be empowered to act as agents of change against the causes and impacts of the climate crisis. That’s why we stand with the international community, Unesco, and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change to call for further education to engage all stakeholders on policies and actions relating to climate change.

Of course, schools, colleges, and universities have a vital part to play in educating the next generation about the impacts of climate change. However, we recognise that there is still work to be done within our industry itself. As a business, we know that we have a responsibility for the impacts of our operations and appreciate the value of the opportunity that we have to empower our staff to advocate sustainable practices both at home and at work. That’s why we’re dedicated to equipping our staff with the knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes they need to join the fight against climate change through training.  

We do so through our continued delivery of Climate Fresk training, which explores the fundamental and undeniable science behind climate change in an interactive three-hour session. Drawing on the facts and reports which inform global political and economic decision-making, Climate Fresk breaks down the complex nature of climate change into a digestible, accessible format.  

To date, Bouygues E&S, an Equans company, have delivered Climate Fresk training to almost 50 of our colleagues, empowering them to take informed, constructive action to help tackle climate change. Our participants walk away with an increased understanding of the foundations of the crisis and a renewed commitment to play their part in battling it.  

Jack Hands, General Management Graduate Trainee, shared his experience of a recent Climate Fresk: “The workshop helped me explore the damaging effects human activities have on the climate and the positive feedback loops which are created through trickle-down effects. More than anything, this hands-on learning experience taught me the impact small actions can have on fostering greener markets. After the session, I was motivated to swap my standard pension to one which invests instead in green funds.”

Chris Milligan, Shift Engineer at the Cambridge Assessment Centre added: “It was great to have the opportunity to attend a Climate Fresk. I learned so much about climate change than I ever knew existed, from carbon sinks to ocean acidification. I came away with a much better understanding of how we’ve got to this point and the things we need to be aware of to change it.”  

In addition to our Climate Fresks, we have also delivered e-cargo bike (electric mobility) training to 17 members of staff, helping them achieve their National Standard Level 3 Cargo Cycle Certificate. Furthermore, with over 98% of our staff completing our sustainability e-learning module, Learning Together for Our Planet, the appetite for sustainability knowledge is clear.  

Julie Hermann, Senior L&D Adviser and founder of the employee-led environmental-focused Green Network, was instrumental in the introduction of Climate Fresks to Bouygues E&S, an Equans company, in the UK. She shared with us:

“The Climate Fresk is an extremely effective exercise in ensuring all employees at every level of the organisation understand what is at stake as we intensify our efforts to decarbonise our activities. It’s incredibly satisfying to see how collaborative and engaging the sessions and discussions are, and to receive such positive feedback from participants. The support, energy, and commitment from across the business to run and attend these sessions has been fantastic to see.”

Lewis Chenery, Head of Environment & Sustainability, echoed the sentiment, sharing: “As a business, Bouygues E&S remains committed to doing our bit to protect the planet for current and future inhabitants. Continuing to raise awareness and providing our colleagues with the right tools and knowledge to be able to make a difference is a core element of our Business Plan that will aid both our and our clients’ journey to net-zero.”