In the post-pandemic era, the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector in Europe stands at a crossroads: how to balance the rapid digital adoption with the growing need for environmental sustainability? A recent study titled “Green Digital Transition in the EU“ not only provides a deep analysis of this challenge but also proposes innovative solutions for a sustainable and inclusive digital transition.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a paradigm shift in the VET sector, with a massive adoption of digital technologies. However, this swift change has raised questions about the environmental impact of such practices.
Anticipating this issue, the European Commission has promoted the idea of a “green and digital transformation of the EU”, seeking to balance technological progress with sustainability. The study “Green Digital Transition in the EU“, examining practices in France, Italy, Ireland, and Estonia, highlights how digitalization can be harmonized with the environment.
The goal is twofold: to identify existing best practices and to promote digitalization that is accessible to everyone, emphasizing that “every individual should be able to contribute to and benefit from the digital world”. The document explores crucial aspects like the impact of emails on CO2 emissions, the energy efficiency of data centers, conscious use of social media, and practices to reduce the ecological footprint of digital tools.
A striking example is the analysis of the energy consumed for sending emails, a daily activity often underestimated for its environmental implications. A key point of the eGreen project, as reported in the study, is developing knowledge and skills among VET professionals about the environmental impact of their digital practices. Special attention is given to the survey conducted, which garnered 265 responses from four countries, aimed at understanding the professionals’ attitude towards “green skills”.
The study underscores the need to raise awareness among VET professionals about the importance of integrating sustainable digital practices into their teaching methods. The eGreen project positions itself as a milestone in promoting digital education that is not only effective but also environmentally respectful. This approach contributes not only to the EU’s political objectives for a green transition but also prepares future generations for a world that is increasingly digital and environmentally conscious.
To learn more about how we can promote a sustainable digital future in the Vocational Education and Training sector, we invite you to read the complete study “Green Digital Transition in the EU“. Join this important discussion and become part of the solution for a greener and digitally advanced future. Download the report today and start your journey towards a conscious and environmentally respectful digitalization.
About eGreen
eGreen is a project funded by the Erasmus+, KA220-VET – Cooperation partnerships in vocational education and training program.
Partners
- ADICE (France, coordinator)
- CESIE (Italy)
- MTE JOHANNES MIHKELSONI KESUK (Estonia)
- REDIAL PARTNERSHIP CLG (Ireland)
For further information
Read more about eGreen.
Contact Fabrizio Di Spezio: fabrizio.dispezio@cesie.org.
