Engineering charity unveils tool to support sustainability skills 

Charity Engineers Without Borders UK has launched a self-led educational tool to address the sustainability skills gap in engineering.  

With support from the Royal Academy of Engineering, the Global Responsibility Competency Compass has been developed to help engineers respond to the complexity and uncertainty of pressing global challenges, such as climate change. 

Data from the Institution of Engineering and Technology reported that just 7% of companies surveyed had the necessary skills to deliver their sustainability strategy.  

The tool aims to help individuals and teams reflect on their strengths and weaknesses, highlighting gaps in the skills needed to act sustainably, ethically, and equitably. 

Developed through extensive consultation and testing, the Compass comprises key competencies to deliver on the four principles of global responsibility – responsible, purposeful, inclusive and regenerative – articulating the skills, knowledge and mindsets required. 

The Engineering Council is endorsing the use of the Compass as a “progressive interpretation of the UK standard for professional qualifications for engineers and technicians”. 

“The Global Responsibility Competency Compass is an introductory and action-orientated tool aimed at anyone in the engineering sector who wants the skills to respond effectively to the complexity, uncertainty and challenges of our age,” said John Kraus, CEO of Engineers Without Borders UK. 

“It is a learning tool for individuals and teams, giving confidence that responsible engineering principles are being embedded at every level and that decisions made balance the needs of all people with the limits of our planet.” 

Download the Global Responsibility Competency Compass here.